The Perfect Bite: 10 Essential Tips for Flavorful Meat

bbq family flavor healthy eating meat Jul 13, 2023

Great-tasting meat isn't just a result of the cut or the quality but a harmony of flavor and cooking techniques. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, these tips will assist you in taking your meat dishes to the next level of culinary excellence.

1. Celebrate the Fat

Fatty cuts like chicken thighs or rib-eye are the most flavorful favorites, thanks to marbling. Plus, they're less prone to drying out. Embrace these cuts and let the healthy fats do their magic!

2. Marinade, Rub, or Brine?

It's essential to know your cuts. Thick cuts of meat can benefit from a marinade, as it will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor. Thin cuts of meat, on the other hand, are best cooked quickly over high heat and don't benefit from marinating.

Rubs: These can be dry or wet and are often used on larger, tougher cuts of meat that will be cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to permeate the meat over time. This includes cuts like pork shoulder, beef brisket, ribs, and roasts. If you want a "crust" on the outside, you'll love a rub!

Brining: Beneficial for leaner, often drier cuts of meat that are prone to drying out during cooking. This includes cuts like chicken breasts, pork chops, turkey (especially for Thanksgiving), and lean cuts of fish. Brining involves soaking the meat in a solution of salt and water, which helps to tenderize the meat and keep it moist during cooking.

3. Salt is Essential

Salt helps to dissolve tough meat fibers and infuse flavor. But don't use just any type of salt; Diamond Crystal kosher salt can be used in a marinade or rub 2 tsp. for every 2 pounds of meat.

4. The Right Marinade Time

Acidic ingredients like citrus, vinegar, buttermilk, or yogurt can weaken the collagen surface, allowing for quick flavor penetration. However, don't leave the meat marinating in one of these solutions too long. Otherwise, it will turn to mush! More time isn't always better; follow recipe directions for recommended timing. If time isn't specified, three hours is typically best.

5. DIY Marinades

Many packaged marinade mixes and salad dressings use unhealthy oils. And they also include sugar, chemical sweeteners, and yeast: all can stimulate appetite and trigger overeating. To control the flavor and healthiness of your dishes, make your own marinades at home. Members & Paid Subscribers: see Ovvia's marinade recipes!

6. Towel Dry Before Grilling

Remove excess marinade and wet liquid by towel-drying your meat before it hits the grill. This helps to ensure flavor transfer from the fire or smoke.

7. Cook with the Skin-On

Leave the skin on while cooking to naturally baste the meat with fat and flavor. This also helps retain moisture!

8. Temperature, Not Time

The best way to ensure your meat is cooked properly and infused with flavor is to watch the temperature, not the time.

9. Utilize a Thermometer

An instant-read thermometer is a flexible and accurate way to check your meat's temperature. They're suitable for all types of meat and different cuts too.

10. Let It Rest

After cooking, let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

At Ovvia® Wellness, we believe that eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. Take your cooking to the next level with our tips and support. For just $5 a month, our paid subscription provides delicious recipes and access to more helpful videos and tips. Members get to connect with our Support Community and access expert advice! Join us on your journey towards a healthier, more flavorful lifestyle.