Express marinade in less than 30 minutes

Secrets that suit beef, pork and chicken.

If you've taken the meat out of the fridge and want to transform it into something delicious but don't have the time , this article was written for you.

Marinade can work wonders — and no, you don't have to leave your meat in the fridge overnight! With the right proportions and a little... love, you can have flavor, aroma, and juiciness even in just 20–30 minutes .

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What does an “express” marinade contain?

A good marinade is based on 4 elements:

1. Acid – e.g. lemon, vinegar or orange (tenderizes meat)
   
   

2. Fatty – e.g. olive oil (helps with baking and carries flavors)
   
   

3. Taste – e.g. mustard, soy, garlic, herbs
   
   

4. Sweetener (optional) – e.g. honey, sugar, syrup (gives balance)
   
   

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Express marinade for chicken (ideal for fillet or legs)

• 3 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Juice of 1 lemon
  
  

• 1 tsp mustard
  
  

• 1 tsp honey
  
  

• 1 clove garlic (chopped)
  
  

• ½ tsp oregano
  
  

• A little salt & pepper
  
  

Place the chicken in a food bag, add the ingredients, shake well and leave it for 20 minutes outside the refrigerator .

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Express marinade for pork (for neck, pancetta or loin)

• 3 tbsp orange juice
  
  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• 1 tbsp soy sauce
  
  

• 1 tsp honey
  
  

• 1 clove of garlic
  
  

• Pepper and rosemary
  
  

Stir and let the meat "drink" the marinade for 25–30 minutes before grilling.

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Express marinade for beef (ideal for steak or burger)

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  
  

• 3 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
  
  

• Rosemary or thyme
  
  

• Salt and freshly ground pepper
  
  

Ideally, marinate outside the refrigerator for 30 minutes (no longer if it's a thin steak).

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Smart Tips

• Don't marinate thin pieces for too long – the acidic element can "cook" the meat and make it tough.
  
  

• Use a ziplock bag or a bowl with a lid – so it can get everywhere.
  
  

• Bring the meat to room temperature before grilling it – this way it cooks evenly.
  
  

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Conclusion:

Flavor doesn't need effort – it needs a way! A simple 20-minute marinade can make all the difference in your dish. And now that you know the secrets, your kitchen will smell delicious every time.