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Spiced and Grilled Steaks With Citrus Chutney

This sophisticated high-protein dish elevates the classic grilled steak with a complex, aromatic rub and a vibrant citrus accompaniment. The unique blend of ground coffee, cocoa powder and toasted coriander seeds creates a savoury crust that beautifully complements the rich flavour of the hanger steak. Paired with a homemade chutney featuring tangy kumquats and grapefruit, every mouthful delivers a perfect balance of earthy spice and bright, zesty acidity.

Ideal for a weekend dinner or an impressive mid-week meal, this recipe offers a refined take on outdoor cooking. The chutney can be prepared up to a week in advance, making the final assembly quick and effortless. Serve these steaks with a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables for a complete, protein-rich meal that feels truly indulgent.

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Ingredients for Spiced and Grilled Steaks With Citrus Chutney

  • 1/2 grapefruit, thinly sliced, seeds removed

  • 230g kumquats, sliced, seeds removed

  • 1 shallot, finely chopped

  • 130g sugar

  • Pinch of kosher salt

  • 1 tablespoon Champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons coriander seeds

  • 2 tablespoons ground coffee

  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt

  • 4 teaspoons light brown sugar

  • 4 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper

  • Vegetable oil (for grilling)

  • 2 hanger steaks, centre membrane removed, each cut into 4 pieces

  • A spice mill or a mortar and pestle

Bring grapefruit, kumquats, shallot, sugar, salt, and 60ml water to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and lowering heat if needed, until citrus is soft and liquid is syrupy, 45–60 minutes. Stir in vinegar and let cool. Cover and chill.

Toast coriander seeds in a small skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let cool, then finely grind in spice mill or mortar and pestle. Mix ground coriander, coffee, salt, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and pepper in a small bowl.

Prepare a grill for medium-high heat; lightly oil grate. Season steaks generously with rub (you’ll have some left over). Grill steaks, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and cooked to desired doneness, 8–10 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes, then slice against the grain. Serve with citrus chutney.

Chutney can be made 1 week ahead. Keep chilled. Rub can be made 1 day ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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