1. Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise really is a magic ingredient. Not only is it a spread, but you can use it as a marinade, too. We love how it perfectly coats the meat, making it perfect for the grill or the air fryer, as it doesn’t drip. It also offers great browning and caramelization. Just combine with your favourite herbs and spices (the mayo helps them adhere to the meat), coat your protein of choice, cook and enjoy!
2. Buttermilk
When it comes to marinades, buttermilk just works! It provides acid that any marinade requires, so it helps to tenderize the meat. Buttermilk also acts as a brine, so it promises great moisture, too.
3. Fish sauce
For a bit of Asian inspiration, fish sauce is a great marinade option. There’s no need to include a fat like oil, and it has that great umami punch, so you don’t need to add much to it, perhaps just a bit of salt and sugar.
ASIAN-INSPIRED RECIPES
Thai-Style Roast Chicken with Fried Enoki Mushrooms
4. Yogurt
For succulent and flavourful meat, yogurt really makes for a great marinade. Common in Indian cuisine, the lactic acid is what helps break down a meat’s protein. It coats a protein beautifully, binding spices and herbs to ensure consistent flavouring. One important note: Opt for high-fat plain yogurt, not Greek yogurt. The latter tends to leave behind a chalky taste.
fish
Tandoori Salmon
5. Lemon with salt
One method we particularly love on Portuguese-inspired chicken is to season the meat liberally with salt and then take the cut side of a lemon and rub it all over. Salt is a flavour amplifier and the lemon helps absorb the salt, thus helping to maintain the chicken’s juice and moisture.