Oriental Marinade Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Oriental Marinade

Oriental Marinade Recipe - Chinese Cuisine
Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Oriental Marinade
Oriental Marinade

Oriental Marinade is a flavorful and versatile marinade that can be used on a variety of proteins such as chicken, beef, or tofu. The combination of soy sauce, sherry, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger creates a delicious umami flavor that will elevate any dish.

History

The Oriental Marinade recipe has its roots in Asian cuisine, where the use of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger is common in marinades and sauces. These ingredients have been used for centuries to add depth and flavor to dishes, and this marinade is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Combine the ingredients in a shallow dish.

Variations

  • Add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • Swap out the soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free version.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate your protein for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for a few hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

- Reserve some of the marinade before adding it to your protein to use as a sauce for serving.

- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor, but you can also use pre-minced garlic and ginger if you're short on time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the marinated protein over rice or noodles with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate your protein in the Oriental Marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling, baking, or sautéing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sherry on hand, you can substitute with rice wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Oriental Marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your dish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair your marinated protein with a side of steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover marinated protein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The Oriental Marinade contains approximately 100 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

The Oriental Marinade contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The Oriental Marinade contains approximately 10 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

The Oriental Marinade contains approximately 1 gram of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

The Oriental Marinade is a good source of vitamin C from the ginger and garlic, as well as iron and calcium from the soy sauce.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals. Please check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Overall, the Oriental Marinade is a flavorful and relatively low-calorie marinade that can add a delicious Asian-inspired flavor to your dishes.

Summary

The Oriental Marinade is a delicious and versatile marinade that can add a burst of flavor to your favorite proteins. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this marinade is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a hot summer day many years ago, and I was wandering through a bustling market in a small town in Thailand. The air was filled with the tantalizing scents of exotic spices and fresh produce, and I couldn't help but feel invigorated by the vibrant energy of the place.

As I meandered through the crowded stalls, my eyes were drawn to a small, unassuming stand tucked away in a corner. The elderly woman behind the counter was busy preparing a batch of marinated meat skewers, and the aroma that wafted towards me was absolutely intoxicating. Intrigued, I approached her and struck up a conversation. She smiled warmly at me, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous twinkle, and I knew I was in for a treat.

She explained to me that the marinade she was using was a closely guarded family recipe passed down through generations. Made with a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a secret mix of spices, it was the key to creating the most succulent and flavorful dishes. I was captivated by her enthusiasm and passion for cooking, and I begged her to share the recipe with me.

With a knowing smile, she agreed to teach me the art of making her special Oriental marinade. We spent the rest of the afternoon huddled together in her tiny kitchen, surrounded by pots and pans, as she patiently guided me through each step of the process. I watched in awe as she deftly chopped, stirred, and seasoned, her hands moving with the precision of a master chef.

As the marinade simmered on the stove, filling the room with its mouthwatering scent, the woman regaled me with stories of her own culinary adventures. She spoke of travels to far-flung corners of the world, of encounters with legendary chefs and street food vendors, and of the deep connection between food and culture. I listened intently, hanging on her every word, as I soaked up the wisdom and knowledge she had to offer.

When the marinade was finally ready, she poured it over a platter of tender chicken skewers and handed me a steaming hot piece to taste. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a symphony of sweet, savory, and spicy notes dancing together in perfect harmony. I was utterly captivated by the complexity and depth of the dish, and I knew that this recipe would become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire.

With a grateful heart, I thanked the woman for sharing her recipe and bid her farewell. As I walked back through the bustling market, a sense of contentment washed over me. I had not only learned a new recipe, but I had also forged a connection with a kindred spirit who shared my love for food and adventure.

From that day on, the Oriental marinade became a staple in my kitchen. I experimented with it, tweaking and adjusting the ingredients to suit my own tastes and preferences. I used it to marinate meats, vegetables, and even tofu, creating a myriad of dishes that never failed to impress my friends and family.

As the years passed, I continued to hone my skills as a cook, drawing inspiration from the countless recipes and techniques I had gathered from my travels and encounters with fellow food enthusiasts. Each dish I created told a story, a tapestry of flavors and memories woven together into a delicious masterpiece.

And so, my journey as a cook and a storyteller continues, fueled by the passion and curiosity that first led me to that small market in Thailand. I am forever grateful for the wisdom and guidance of the woman who shared her Oriental marinade recipe with me, for she not only taught me how to cook, but also how to savor life's rich tapestry of experiences and flavors.

Categories

| Cathy's Recipes | Chinese Recipes | Marinade Recipes |

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