Hilltop’s Marinated Tips: A Culinary Throwback

The scent alone takes me back. It’s a mix of sweet maple, tangy vinegar, and savory soy, underpinned by the earthy aroma of garlic and herbs. That scent is the essence of Hilltop Steak House, a bygone culinary landmark in my childhood. Even though the restaurant is no longer with us, the memory of their marinated steak tips, sizzling on the grill and piled high on a plate, remains a vibrant, delicious memory.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ 6 hours marinating)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 35 minutes
• Servings: 10-12
• Yield: Varies based on steak size
• Dietary Type: Varies, see notes

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (use real maple syrup for the best flavor)
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari for a gluten-free option)
• Chopped fresh parsley, to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• Dried oregano, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
• 4 lbs sirloin steak tips
• 2 lbs white pearl onions, peeled
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into large pieces
• 2 green bell peppers, cut into large pieces
• 16 ounces mushrooms, quartered or halved if large

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl or resealable bag
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl or resealable bag, combine the olive oil, maple syrup, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, chopped parsley, chopped garlic, oregano, and black pepper. This is your marinade.
2. Add the sirloin steak tips to the marinade. Ensure the tips are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl tightly.
3. Marinate the steak tips in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours. The longer the marinating time, the more flavorful and tender the tips will become. Turn the bag or stir the bowl occasionally to ensure even marinating.
4. About an hour before you plan to grill, prepare the vegetables. Wash and cut the red bell peppers, green bell peppers, white pearl onions and mushrooms into large, grill-friendly pieces.
5. Add the cut vegetables to the marinade with the steak tips. Toss to coat. Marinating the vegetables for this short time will infuse them with flavor, but you can also add them during the grilling process if preferred.
6. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan indoors, preheat it over medium-high heat as well.
7. Remove the steak tips and vegetables from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. You can reserve the marinade for basting if desired, but be sure to bring it to a boil first to kill any bacteria.
8. Grill the steak tips and vegetables, turning occasionally, until the steak tips are cooked to your desired doneness and the vegetables are tender-crisp. For medium-rare, cook the steak tips to an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, cook to 135-145°F.
9. Grilling time will vary depending on the size of the steak tips and the heat of your grill, but generally, it should take about 15-20 minutes.
10. Remove the steak tips and vegetables from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Marinating Time: While the recipe calls for at least 6 hours, marinating overnight (up to 24 hours) yields the most intense flavor.
• Steak Selection: Sirloin tips are the classic choice, but you can also use other cuts like flank steak or skirt steak, cut into similar bite-sized pieces.
• Vegetable Prep: Don’t cut the vegetables too small, as they can easily fall through the grill grates. Larger pieces will also char nicely.
• Grill Temperature: Medium-high heat is ideal for searing the steak tips and achieving a nice crust while keeping the inside tender.
• Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak tips are cooked to your desired doneness. Overcooked steak tips can be tough and dry.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Hilltop’s Marinated Tips hot off the grill, either on their own or with your favorite sides. They pair well with rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a simple green salad.

Leftover steak tips and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Reheating can sometimes dry the steak a bit, so add a splash of beef broth or water to the skillet to keep them moist. They can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	725 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	47.2g	72%
Saturated Fat	17g	84%
Cholesterol	177.7mg	59%
Sodium	536.4mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	19.4g	6%
Dietary Fiber	2.7g	10%
Sugars	11.1g	N/A
Protein	54.5g	108%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the steak tips with firm tofu or portobello mushroom caps for a vegetarian option. Marinate and grill as directed.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables to the marinade and grill, such as zucchini, yellow squash, or cherry tomatoes.
• Marinade Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your liking, depending on how sweet you prefer the marinade to be. Honey can also be used as a substitute.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I marinate the steak tips for longer than 24 hours?
A: While you can marinate them for longer, the acidity in the marinade may start to break down the meat fibers, potentially making them mushy. 24 hours is generally the sweet spot.

Q: What if I don’t have pearl onions?
A: You can use regular yellow onions, cut into large wedges. Red onions also work well.

Q: Can I bake the steak tips instead of grilling them?
A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Broiling for the last few minutes can add color.

Q: What’s the best way to tell if the steak tips are done?
A: The most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a steak tip, avoiding bone or fat.

Q: Can I use the marinade on other meats?
A: Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully on chicken, pork, or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Hilltop’s Marinated Tips is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times. I encourage you to try it, experiment with the variations, and make it your own. Share your feedback, and perhaps pair it with a classic New England side dish or a crisp, refreshing beer. Whether you have fond memories of Hilltop Steak House or are simply looking for a delicious and flavorful grilled steak recipe, I hope you enjoy this culinary tribute. Happy grilling!