Marinade

A flavorful liquid, typically acidic or oil-based, used to soak meat, seafood, vegetables, or other foods before cooking. The purpose of a marinade is threefold: to tenderize tough cuts of meat, to add flavor by infusing the food with the marinade's components, and sometimes to act as a preserving agent. Marinades usually contain a combination of ingredients such as oil, an acid (vinegar, citrus juice, yogurt), herbs, spices, and aromatics (garlic, onion). The food is typically submerged in the marinade for a period ranging from 30 minutes to several days, depending on the food type and desired intensity of flavor. Proper marinating can significantly enhance the taste and texture of cooked dishes.

Marinade meaning with examples

• I marinated the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for several hours before grilling. The acid in the marinade helped to tenderize the meat, while the other ingredients infused it with a delicious Mediterranean flavor. The finished chicken was juicy, tender, and bursting with freshness, far exceeding the taste of the same chicken cooked without a marinade. This marinade has become a staple in my house.
• For the beef kabobs, I prepared a flavorful marinade with balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. The beef soaked overnight in the marinade, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. The next day the beef was cut into cubes, ready to be skewered with vegetables. This marinating process resulted in a tender and exceptionally savory kabob that was a huge hit at the cookout.
• The chef carefully marinated the tofu in a blend of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. The tofu absorbed the flavors and was then pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. This technique elevated the humble tofu to a gourmet meal, transforming its otherwise bland taste into a culinary experience. This is a favorite dish of anyone who is vegetarian.
• Before baking the salmon, the cook marinated it in a dill and lemon mixture. The marinade enhanced the natural richness of the salmon and created a delightful harmony. The marinade’s influence extended to the moisture content, resulting in a flaky and perfectly cooked fish with a zesty finish. This dish is not only elegant but also simple to prepare, offering a light yet satisfying meal option.
• She marinated the vegetables overnight in a vibrant concoction of red wine vinegar, olive oil, and Italian herbs. This extended soaking ensured a thorough infusion of flavors, creating an appetizing salad ingredient or a colorful addition to grilled platters. The marinated vegetables were a welcome addition to the grill, adding a fresh layer of taste and texture.