Whether you’ve attained grill mastery or you’re just starting out, there’s one step in your meat preparation that you should never forget: marinating. Not only does it allow you some creative flair with your grilling, it holds a host of other benefits too. And you might not even expect some of them! Keep reading to find out what they are.
Flavor
Above all else, marinating enhances the flavor of any meat. When you buy grass-fed steaks or wild caught Alaskan salmon, you’re already guaranteed quality. But marinating can help bring out the flavor of your meat while adding some light seasoning to it. Grass fed beef already has higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and a nice flavor, but a little marinating never hurt anyone. And your choices of herbs and oils are practically limitless!
Simplicity
One of the greatest things about marinating is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it can be as simple as olive oil, lemon juice, and a few basic spices. More experienced or specialty chefs may get a little bit more complex in their recipes, especially for dry rubs, but that’s the beauty of marinating. You can make it whatever you like. Whether you buy grass fed steaks, free range pork, or any other type of meat from local meat farmers, a marinade can help you make it your own.
Health
Believe it or not, there’s actually scientific evidence that marinating is good for you. When cooked at high temperatures, meat can produce Heterocyclic Amines (HCAs). But according to a 2007 study from researchers at Kansas State University, marinating meat can inhibit HCAs from forming. Of course, that doesn’t mean all of the other health precautions around meat can be ignored. Make sure you’re still working on a clean surface and that you disinfect all of your tools after you’ve finished working with the raw meat.
When you buy grass fed steaks online or in a store, you should already have your cooking plan in mind. And if it’s grilling, a marinade is key! What are you waiting for? Grilling season is starting and it’s time to get those marinades ready.