What is the easiest way to tenderize meat?
Tips and tricks for meat preparation
Tenderizing meat is an art in itself. Here are some tried and tested methods you can try:
- Marinate: Marinate meat with citrus fruits, vinegar or spices to make it tender and flavorful.
- Slow heating: Avoid sudden heat; increase the temperature slowly to gently open the meat fibers.
- Long cooking at low temperatures: Ideal for roasts or stews to slowly cook the meat until tender.
- Using acids: A little vinegar or citrus juice can help loosen the meat fibers.
- Movement: Turn the meat occasionally during cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Nitrite curing salt: Can be used to loosen meat fibers, but use with caution.
- Grater: Use to cool meat after cooking to preserve tenderness.
- Plant enzymes: Enzymes in pineapple or papaya can tenderize meat naturally.
- Sodium bicarbonate: In small amounts it can soften the meat.
- Pre-cutting: Cut meat into smaller pieces before frying or grilling to reduce cooking time.