Why is it Essential to Marinate Meat before Cooking?

Different delicious dishes are made with meat. From professional chefs to a common everyday meal preparer; everyone loves working with meat as they offer their loved ones and guests delicious food which is healthy for numerous reasons. However, before preparing it, one needs to marinate it appropriately. But do you know why this is done? Well, a lot of reasons are there for people opting for marinated meat. 

Why meat is marinated? 

To know the answer go through the facts below: 

1.      Marinating meats means decreasing amount of HCAs (carcinogenic heterocyclic amine) which a portion of meat produces when cooking at remarkably high temperatures. It is a proven fact that marinate reduces HCA as high as 99%.

2.      Acidic aspect in marinade slows harmful bacteria’s growth such as listeria. This is ideal as is having a healthy and disease-free life.

3.      Marinating at room temperature is never ideal. Marinade slows down bacteria growth but doesn’t completely stop it. So, most experts advise marinating in fridge. 

4.      Meat is marinated with acidic ingredients which are natural such as citrus juices and vinegar. This makes meat tender which in turn helps in digesting protein easily. Moreover, marinated meat locks moisture which means it doesn’t toughen up by drying out.  

5.      If a person is looking to intake fewer calories than using just half-cup marinade for every pound is ideal. This adequately coats meat; however, cuts excess calorie. 

6.      If one plans on eating poultry meat, then it essential to use the marinated meat within a space of two days. However, if the meat is beef or something like that, then one can use it anytime within five days time.  

7.      One shouldn’t reuse marinade which is uncooked. If creating a sauce, boil it accordingly to kill bacteria

These are the reasons as to why people marinate meat before cooking it. Make sure you do too before cooking meat from next time.