Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

Revolutionize your grilling: create your own mouthwatering meat tenderizer seasoning

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • For optimal tenderness, allow the meat to marinate in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  • Allow the cooked meat to rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture.
  • Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Unlock the secret to tantalizingly tender meat with our comprehensive guide on how to make meat tenderizer seasoning. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, this step-by-step tutorial will elevate your grilling experience to new heights.

Understanding Meat Tenderizers:

Meat tenderizers work by breaking down the tough proteins found in meat, making it more pliable and succulent. There are two primary types of tenderizers:

  • Mechanical Tenderizers: Physical methods like pounding, marinating, or using a meat tenderizing mallet.
  • Chemical Tenderizers: Enzymes or acids that dissolve the proteins, such as pineapple juice, papaya extract, or lemon juice.

Ingredients for a Homemade Meat Tenderizer Seasoning:

To create a flavorful and effective meat tenderizer seasoning, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup black pepper
  • 1/4 cup granulated garlic
  • 1/4 cup granulated onion
  • 2 tablespoons ground mustard
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the salt, brown sugar, pepper, garlic, onion, mustard, paprika, chili powder, cumin, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a homogeneous mixture.
3. Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.

Applying the Meat Tenderizer Seasoning:

1. Season Generously: Before grilling, sprinkle the seasoning liberally over the meat, ensuring an even coating.
2. Marinate: For optimal tenderness, allow the meat to marinate in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
3. Grill or Cook: Remove the meat from the marinade and grill or cook according to your desired method.

Enhanced Flavor Profiles:

Experiment with different ingredient combinations to create unique flavor profiles:

  • Citrus Zest: Add a burst of citrusy freshness with lemon or orange zest.
  • Herbs and Spices: Enhance the aromatic complexity with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or cilantro.
  • Smoked Paprika: Infuse a smoky flavor with smoked paprika.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: Create a sweet and savory balance with a touch of honey or maple syrup.

Tips for Maximizing Tenderness:

  • Use a Meat Mallet: Pound the meat with a meat mallet before applying the seasoning to further break down the tough fibers.
  • Marinate Overnight: Allow the meat to marinate in the seasoning for an extended period for optimal tenderness.
  • Cook to the Proper Temperature: Avoid overcooking the meat, as this can toughen it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches the desired doneness.
  • Let the Meat Rest: Allow the cooked meat to rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture.

Key Points:

Mastering the art of meat tenderizer seasoning is the key to unlocking succulent and flavorful grilled meats. By following these steps and experimenting with different flavor combinations, you can elevate your grilling skills and impress your guests with every bite.

Answers to Your Questions

  • Can I use store-bought meat tenderizer seasoning? Yes, store-bought seasonings are convenient, but homemade seasonings offer more control over ingredients and flavor.
  • How much seasoning should I use per pound of meat? As a general guideline, use 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of meat.
  • Can I use meat tenderizer seasoning on all types of meat? Yes, it is suitable for beef, pork, chicken, fish, and lamb.
  • How long can I store homemade meat tenderizer seasoning? Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
  • Can I use meat tenderizer seasoning as a marinade? Yes, you can use it as a marinade by adding liquid, such as olive oil or water.
Was this page helpful?

Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
Back to top button