Marinating meat

Marinating meat is an essential art in cooking that can transform a simple dish into an unforgettable culinary experience. This technique not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also gives it a softer and juicier texture. In this recipe, I will show you how to marinate meat with a combination of aromatic herbs and delicious ingredients that will elevate your dish to a delicacy.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours (for sliced meat) or 12 hours (for a whole piece)
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (or 1/2 tablespoon dried)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup milk
- 250 g natural yogurt

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by measuring all the ingredients. Make sure the herbs are fresh, as they will provide a more vibrant flavor. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried herbs can work, but use a smaller amount as the flavors are more concentrated.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rosemary, basil, thyme, pepper, salt, and sage. These aromatic plants create a balanced mix of flavors that will infuse into the meat. Add the olive oil, milk, and natural yogurt. Mix well until all the ingredients are homogeneous.

3. Marinating the meat: Place the meat in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring it is evenly coated. This is a crucial step, as the marinade will penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor and texture. Once finished, cover the bowl with aluminum foil or a lid.

4. Marinating time: If you choose to marinate sliced meat, let it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For a whole piece of meat, it is ideal to let it marinate for at least 12 hours. This period allows the flavors to develop and penetrate the meat, transforming it into a juicy and flavorful dish.

5. Cooking the meat: After the marinating period, remove the meat from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step helps achieve even cooking. You can cook the meat on the grill, in the oven, or in a pan, depending on your preferences.

Helpful tips:
- The marinade can be adapted according to personal tastes. For example, add a splash of honey or soy sauce for a sweet-salty note.
- If you want to keep the meat for a longer time, marinating is an excellent technique, but make sure to freeze it after marinating.
- Do not throw away the leftover marinade; you can use it as a sauce. Boil it to kill bacteria and then use it to drizzle over the cooked meat.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This marinade not only enhances flavor but also offers nutritional benefits. Yogurt is a good source of protein and probiotics, while olive oil is rich in healthy fats. Each serving of marinade contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of meat used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Sure! This marinade works great with chicken, pork, or beef.
- What type of utensils should I use? A glass or ceramic bowl is ideal for marinating, as it does not react chemically with the ingredients.

Serving suggestions:
To complement the dish, I recommend serving the marinated meat with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. Rice or baked potatoes are also excellent accompaniments. For a simple dessert, a fruit tart can end the meal on a sweet note.

Possible variations include adding spices like cumin or paprika for a spicier flavor. Experiment with different herbs or add citrus (lemon or orange) for a fresher marinade.

Marinating meat is not just a step in cooking; it is an opportunity to explore flavors and combinations. So put on your apron and get ready to transform a simple piece of meat into a culinary feast!