The Magic of Marinades Marinades tenderize and flavorize meats!

 

 

Nothing beats the wonderful flavor of pure, unadulterated meat. Whether it's a juicy steak or a plump chicken breast, many folks like their meat plain, so that the taste itself shines through, unhindered by other flavorings.

 

There are times, though, when cooks really need a good marinade—for a tough cut of meat, or one that will be cooked for a long time. And other times, it's just the variety that other flavors provide. Regardless, marinades have their place in the kitchen and on the grill.

 

Most marinades include some type of acid, such as vinegar, citrus or wine. Acids help break down connective tissues in the meat—and that makes the meat more tender. Oil isn't really necessary in a marinade, and often should be avoided. Oil can make it more difficult for the meat to absorb the marinade's liquids.

 

Because marinades are used with raw meat, used marinades aren't suitable for sauces, unless they've been thoroughly cooked to kill any bacteria. Cook marinades for at least 3 minutes if you plan to use them beyond the initial soak.

 

How long to marinate:

• Fish steaks or fillets: 15 minutes to 1 hour. Fish doesn't have connective tissue, so marinades don't need long to work their magic.
• Tender cuts of meat: 30 minutes to 2 hours. Tender cuts include poultry and steaks.
• Less-tender cuts of meat: 6 hours to overnight. These cuts include top and bottom round, chuck and arm, flank and skirt steaks.
• Cut-up meat: 4 to 8 hours. Don't marinate meat too long in a strong-flavored marinade. The marinade can overpower the meat's natural flavor.

White Wine and Herb Marinade

This is great for lighter meats, such as chicken or pork loin.

 

2 Tbs soy sauce

2 Tbs white wine

1 tsp lime juice

1 tsp brown sugar

1 tsp basil

1 tsp marjoram

1/2 tsp sage

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

 

Combine all ingredients. Place meat in the marinade and allow to stand, chilled, for 2 hours, turning several times. Cook as desired.

 

Steakhouse Marinade for Beef

1/2 cup cider vinegar

1/4 cup minced onion

1/4 cup water

2 Tbs paprika

1 Tbs tomato paste

1 Tbs minced garlic

1 Tbs sugar

1 Tbs lemon juice

1 Tbs soy sauce

2 tsp dry mustard

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1 tsp salt

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1/8 tsp black pepper

 

Combine all ingredients. Marinade steak 4 hours, turning several times. Grill or broil according to preferences.