The Basics of Marinating

Marinating is a great way to add flavor and tenderness to meat, poultry, fish, and vegetables. It  works by allowing the flavors of the marinade to penetrate the food, and by breaking down the tough muscle fibers, making the food more tender. By following these basic tips, you can create delicious and flavorful dishes that everyone will enjoy.

How do I marinate my food?

To properly marinate your food, ensure that it is fully submerged in the marinade. This will maximize the amount of flavor in your dish. When marinating, it is important to keep the food covered so that the marinade does not evaporate. You can marinate your food in a glass or plastic container, or in a resealable bag. After marinating, be sure to discard the marinade.

How long should you marinate your food?

The amount of time you marinate your food will depend on the cut of meat, the thickness of the food, and your personal preference. For most cuts of meat, 2-4 hours is a good amount of time to marinate. For thicker cuts of meat, you may need to marinate for longer, up to 12 hours.

Which marinade is best for my meal?

Choosing a marinade can be tough – they’re all so tasty! However, the choice of marinade is based on your personal preference. Allegro offers nine different flavors that will delight your palate and take your meal to the next level! You can learn more about the specific flavors on each of their product pages.  

Here are some tips for marinating:

  • Choose the right cut of meat. Some cuts of meat, such as flank steak and skirt steak, are more tender and do not need to be marinated as long as other cuts, such as pork shoulder and beef chuck roast.
  • Trim the fat. Fat can prevent the marinade from penetrating the meat, so it is important to trim any excess fat before marinating.
  • Score the meat. Scoring the meat with a sharp knife will help the marinade penetrate more deeply.
  • Pound the meat. Pounding the meat will also help it to tenderize.
  • Marinate in the refrigerator. Marinating in the refrigerator will help to prevent the growth of bacteria.
  • Don’t overmarinate. Overmarinating can make the meat tough and mushy.

Marinating is a simple way to add flavor and tenderness to your food. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to create delicious and flavorful dishes that everyone will enjoy.