It’s our favorite time of year – Summer Grilling Recipe Season! Ribs, steaks, burgers, chicken….the list goes on and on!
Want to find the right cut for barbecuing?
To help you pick out the best ribs for your summer grilling pleasure, visit our blog: The Great Rib Controversy!
And, if steak is what you’re hankering for, check out our blog post: The Quintessential Steak!
Some of our outdoor dining favorites are back!
We’ve brought back a few of our favorite recipes using products from our regional producers. You just can’t argue with the best hamburger recipe ever, made with our ground beef and served on a fresh brioche bun from our friends at Liberty Food and Wine Exchange or baked french fries doused in french fry seasoning from Heartrock Herb & Spice Co.
What’s new in the 2023 Summer Grilling recipe book
We’ve partnered with Heart Rock Herb & Spice Company to bring you some fantastic recipes you can make at home, plus we’re offering up some great marinades and some of Karin’s favorite summertime recipes – including her grandma’s favorite – Strawberry Ice Cream!
You’re going to love these summer grilling recipes!
Let’s talk about marinades!
We’ve loaded this summer grilling recipe book with several great marinade recipes to suit any taste bud!
Why marinate? The process of marination involves soaking meat in a flavorful liquid before cooking it, resulting in tender, juicy, and exceptionally delicious results. Marinating chicken, pork, and beef for grilling is a technique every grilling enthusiast should embrace, and here’s why:
Enhanced Flavor Infusion:
Marinating meats adds depth, complexity, and an explosion of flavors to your grilled dishes. The marinade, typically consisting of a combination of ingredients like oil, acid (such as vinegar or citrus juice), herbs, spices, and aromatics, penetrates the meat, infusing it with a tantalizing blend of tastes. Whether you prefer tangy, sweet, spicy, or savory flavors, marinating allows you to customize your meat to your liking and create a memorable dining experience.
Tenderizing Tough Cuts:
Certain cuts of chicken, pork, and beef can be tough, especially when cooked over high heat. Marinating helps to tenderize these tougher cuts by breaking down the muscle fibers and connective tissues. The acidic components in the marinade, such as lemon juice or yogurt, help to denature proteins, making the meat more tender and easier to chew. As a result, you can enjoy tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites of meat that are full of flavor.
Moisture Retention:
One of the key benefits of marinating meat is its ability to retain moisture during grilling. The ingredients in the marinade, particularly oil and salt, help to create a barrier on the meat’s surface, reducing moisture loss during cooking. This means your grilled chicken, pork, or beef will stay juicy and succulent, preventing dry and bland results. With properly marinated meat, you’ll savor each bite and keep your guests coming back for more.
Flavor Harmony and Versatility:
Marinating meats not only imparts flavor but also allows you to create harmonious combinations with other ingredients. By experimenting with different herbs, spices, and liquids, you can customize the marinade to complement your personal taste preferences or match the theme of your meal. From tangy teriyaki to zesty citrus, spicy barbecue to aromatic herb-infused marinades, the possibilities are endless. Marinating provides a versatile canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
Healthier Grilling Option:
Grilling is often associated with charred and potentially harmful compounds, but marinating can help reduce their formation. Studies have shown that marinating meat, particularly with certain ingredients like herbs, spices, and acidic liquids, can act as a protective barrier, minimizing the formation of harmful compounds when the meat is cooked at high temperatures. By marinating your meats before grilling, you can enjoy a healthier barbecue experience without compromising on flavor.
So, fire up that grill, prepare your favorite marinade, and get ready to indulge in a symphony of flavors with each and every bite. Happy grilling!