A Little Wine Marinade

A Little Wine Marinade Recipe - Elevate Your Dishes | Tasty Food Recipes

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

A Little Wine Marinade is a versatile and flavorful recipe that can elevate the taste of fish, chicken, or kabobs to new heights. This marinade combines the acidity of white wine and lemon juice with the aromatic presence of onions and parsley, balanced with a hint of heat from hot pepper sauce. It's a simple yet effective way to infuse your meals with depth and character.

History

The use of wine in marinades has a long history, tracing back to ancient civilizations where wine was not only a staple beverage but also a key ingredient in cooking. The acidity in wine helps tenderize the meat, while its complex flavors contribute to the overall taste profile of the dish. This particular recipe, with its combination of ingredients, is a modern take on traditional wine marinades, designed to be easy to prepare with readily available ingredients.

Ingredients

1 onion, finely chopped
0.5 cup canola oil
0.5 cup white wine
0.25 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh parsley, snipped
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp hot pepper sauce

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients.
Use the marinade on fish, chicken, or kabob cubes.
Place the entree in a plastic bag, cover it with the marinade, and tie it closed.
Refrigerate for at least 5 hours.
Remove the meat or fish and discard the marinade.
Grill and enjoy.

Variations

For a red wine variant, substitute the white wine with a dry red wine and add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a deeper flavor. For a non-alcoholic version, replace the wine with grape juice or chicken broth and a teaspoon of white wine vinegar.
Consider using red wine for a deeper flavor or adding minced garlic for an extra kick. For a sweeter variation, a tablespoon of honey can balance the acidity of the wine and lemon juice.
For a red wine variant, substitute the white wine with a dry red wine. Add a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness, or include a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for additional depth.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure that the onion is finely chopped to release its flavors more effectively into the marinade. When marinating, make sure the meat or fish is fully submerged in the mixture to allow for even flavor distribution. For a more intense flavor, marinate overnight. Always discard the used marinade to avoid bacterial contamination.

Serving Suggestions

This marinade pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving the marinated and grilled protein alongside a quinoa or rice pilaf.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the recommended cooking method for meats or fish prepared with this marinade, as it enhances the flavors through caramelization. However, baking or broiling are suitable alternatives for indoor cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If canola oil is not available, olive oil makes a good substitute. Apple cider vinegar can replace lemon juice for a different acidic note. For those avoiding alcohol, non-alcoholic wine or broth can be used in place of white wine.

Make Ahead Tips

The marinade can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For convenience, prepare and marinate the protein the night before cooking to save time and enhance flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the grilled protein on a bed of mixed greens, garnished with lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an appealing and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy IPA complements the flavors of the marinade well, balancing the dish's acidity and richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Any leftover cooked protein should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of the marinade (excluding the meat or fish) contains approximately 150 calories. The majority of these calories come from the canola oil, which is a calorie-dense ingredient.

Carbohydrates

This marinade is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the onion and lemon juice. The total carbohydrate content is approximately 10 grams per serving, making it a suitable option for those on low-carb diets.

Fats

The canola oil contributes healthy unsaturated fats to the marinade, with a total fat content of about 14 grams per serving. These fats are essential for a balanced diet, aiding in vitamin absorption and providing energy.

Proteins

While the marinade itself does not contain a significant amount of protein, it is designed to enhance protein-rich foods like chicken and fish. The final protein content will depend on the specific type of meat or fish used.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemon juice and parsley are excellent sources of Vitamin C and Vitamin K, respectively, contributing to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the marinade. Onions provide a modest amount of Vitamin B6, essential for energy metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, and eggs, making it suitable for individuals with food sensitivities or allergies.

Summary

A Little Wine Marinade is a low-carbohydrate, moderate-fat recipe that enhances the nutritional profile of protein-rich foods. It provides essential vitamins and minerals while being mindful of allergens and dietary restrictions.

Summary

A Little Wine Marinade is a simple yet sophisticated way to add flavor and tenderness to your favorite proteins. With its healthy profile and versatility, it's a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, suitable for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a little wine marinade that was passed down to me by my dear friend, Clara. Clara was a fantastic cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients. She was the one who introduced me to this amazing marinade, and I have been using it ever since.

I remember the day like it was yesterday. Clara had invited me over for dinner, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the delicious aroma of the marinade simmering on the stove. She smiled and handed me a glass of wine, telling me she had a special recipe to share with me.

As we sat at her kitchen table, she explained how she had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother, and so on. It was a family recipe that had been passed down through the generations, and Clara was happy to continue the tradition.

The marinade itself was simple yet flavorful. It consisted of red wine, olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a touch of honey. Clara explained that the key to a good marinade was to let the flavors meld together for at least a few hours, if not overnight. This allowed the meat to absorb all the delicious flavors and become tender and juicy.

After dinner, I asked Clara for the recipe, knowing that I had to make it for myself. She gladly wrote it down for me, and I tucked it away in my recipe box, ready to use whenever the occasion called for it.

Over the years, I have made this marinade countless times for family dinners, backyard BBQs, and holiday gatherings. It has always been a hit, with everyone asking for the recipe. I have shared it with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have tasted it and wanted to know the secret behind its delicious flavor.

As I have continued to use this marinade, I have made a few tweaks of my own, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that to make it my own. I have experimented with different types of wine, varying the herbs and spices, and even trying it with different meats. Each time, the results have been mouthwatering, leaving everyone asking for seconds.

I am grateful to Clara for sharing this recipe with me, as it has become a staple in my kitchen. It reminds me of the importance of passing down family traditions and sharing the joy of cooking with others. I hope that one day, I can pass this recipe on to my own grandchildren, keeping the tradition alive for future generations to enjoy.

So, the next time you are looking for a delicious marinade to elevate your meal, give this little wine marinade a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Cheers to good food, good friends, and good memories shared around the dinner table.