Soy-and-Cola-Marinated Steak

Marinating steak in Coca-Cola is a pro grilling move practiced by experienced cooks, including Korean grill masters, who rely on the soda to give bulgogi and kalbi an extra pop, and my own Midwestern mom. Soda’s unique blend of high acidity and sugar both tenderizes the meat and speeds up caramelization on the grill for the perfect char. This recipe borrows the technique, marinating skirt steak in a salty-sweet mix of Coca-Cola, soy sauce, garlic, and white miso. Be sure to use regular (not diet) cola, and don’t worry if the miso doesn’t dissolve while mixing; it will blend in as the steak marinates.