Frequently Asked Questions
QUESTION:
Looking for a quick and easy marinade.
Hello, I am looking for a quick and easy marinade for steak tips? No mushrooms, or wine, or honey or ginger. Thank you.
ANSWER:
Marinades serve a two purposes: They add flavor and enhance the crisping and browning ability to the exterior of meats and poultry. All you need to create your own delicious marinades are three basic ingredients:
- Flavorings, such as herbs, spices, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and sweeteners such as brown sugar, etc.
- Oils to help keep foods pliable and promote a crispier exterior.
- An acidic ingredient, such as citrus juices, wines, vinegars, or yogurt), to balance the sweetness. (Acids don't actually break down muscle and tenderize meats, they do penetrate the outer 1/2 inch of the surface and soften the flesh, so use them sparingly with delicate fish and poultry.)
The standard basic formula for marinades is 1 part acid to 3 parts oil, and the desired seasonings added according to your own preference. Because none of the ingredients need to be precisely measured, these virtually foolproof concoctions are more forgiving than most recipes.
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