Barbecuing: should food be marinated before cooking?

Today, we’re focusing on one of summer’s most popular cooking methods: barbecuing. While many people opt for a marinade before cooking meat or vegetables, it’s legitimate to ask whether this is a mandatory step. Here’s the answer.

Summer BBQ Tips: Should You Marinate Your Meat?

As summer arrives, it’s time to fire up the barbecue. When the sun shines and temperatures rise, there’s nothing better than grilling meat, sausages, or vegetables on the terrace. But before you start cooking, there’s the important step of preparing the ingredients.

So, is marinating a must before grilling? According to Yohan Aupiais, a barbecue enthusiast and restaurant owner, the answer might surprise you. Here’s what you need to know about marinating meat for your summer barbecues.

Is Marinating Essential?

Not Always Necessary

Contrary to popular belief, marinating your meat before grilling isn’t always necessary. If you choose high-quality cuts, they can often stand on their own. Yohan Aupiais suggests keeping it simple: “To respect the original flavor of beef or lamb, I prefer to season them with a touch of sea salt before cooking for added crunch. To avoid burning, I add pepper only at the end of cooking.”

Dry Marinades

For some meats, dry marinades can enhance the flavor. Using herbs or spices is a great way to bring out the taste of poultry, which can be more neutral.

Avoid Oily Marinades

Aupiais advises against using oily marinades, especially when cooking on a wood-fired barbecue, as they may catch fire.

For gas or electric grills and planchas, it’s a different story. “Use spicy, lemon-infused oils, or even coconut milk mixed with ketchup or honey to marinate chicken fillets, pork ribs, or skewers.”

Fish and Seafood

When it comes to fish or shrimp, Aupiais recommends leaving the scales or shells on during cooking to protect the flesh. They’re easy to remove afterward.

With these expert tips, you’ll be the barbecue master this summer!