Lemongrass Marinade for Deliciously Flavorful Protein Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing lemongrass marinade brings a bright, citrusy flavor to your favorite proteins. Perfect for chicken, fish, or tofu, it’s quick to prepare and adds a lovely aromatic touch to your dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the lemongrass, soy sauce, garlic, and oil in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth to create a flavorful marinade.
- Step 2: Pour the marinade over your choice of protein and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking to absorb the flavors.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a teaspoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the savory and tangy notes.
- If fresh lemongrass is unavailable, use 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste as a convenient substitute.
- Marinate proteins overnight in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Discard if it develops an off smell or color. Marinated proteins can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this marinade for vegetables?
Yes, this lemongrass marinade works well with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers when grilled or roasted.
Is it necessary to blend the marinade?
Blending helps release the lemongrass’s flavors and creates a smooth texture, but finely chopping the ingredients and mixing well can also work in a pinch.
PrintLemongrass Marinade for Deliciously Flavorful Protein Recipe
A vibrant and aromatic lemongrass marinade perfect for imparting fresh, citrusy flavors to your favorite proteins. This simple blend combines lemongrass, soy sauce, garlic, and oil to create a versatile marinade ideal for grilling, pan-frying, or baking meats and tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: Variable depending on protein and method, typically 15-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes to 2.5 hours (including marinating time)
- Yield: Enough marinade for 1 to 1.5 pounds of protein
- Category: Marinade
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemongrass: Peel and finely chop the lemongrass stalks to release their fragrant oils, ensuring the marinade will have maximum flavor.
- Blend the Ingredients: Combine the chopped lemongrass, soy sauce, minced garlic, and oil in a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth, uniform mixture that will evenly coat your protein.
- Marinate the Protein: Place your choice of protein (such as chicken, beef, tofu, or shrimp) in a bowl or zip-top bag, then pour the lemongrass marinade over it. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse, preferably 2 hours for deeper taste.
- Cook the Protein: After marinating, cook your protein as desired—grill, pan-fry, or bake—until it reaches the appropriate internal temperature and is cooked through.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the protein for at least 2 hours or overnight for fuller flavor.
- This marinade works well with chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, and firm tofu.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to control saltiness based on your preference or dietary needs.
- Use vegetable or peanut oil for a neutral taste; avoid olive oil as it may overpower the lemongrass flavor.
- Store leftover marinade separately; do not reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw protein.
Keywords: lemongrass marinade, Asian marinade, marinade for grilling, garlic soy marinade, lemongrass sauce
