What To Know
- The salt and baking soda in the powder help break down the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender.
- How much meat tenderizer powder should I use per pound of meat.
- Store the meat tenderizer powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Unlock the secrets of tender, succulent meat with your very own homemade meat tenderizer powder! This easy-to-make blend transforms tough cuts into mouthwatering masterpieces, saving you time and enhancing your culinary creations. Follow our step-by-step guide to master the art of meat tenderizing and elevate your cooking game.
Ingredients for Meat Tenderizer Powder
- 1 cup salt
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup black pepper
- 1/4 cup onion powder
- 1/4 cup garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
Equipment You’ll Need
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Airtight container
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the salt, baking soda, cornstarch, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Use a whisk or fork to combine the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
3. Store in Airtight Container: Transfer the meat tenderizer powder to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
How to Use Meat Tenderizer Powder
1. Apply to Meat: Sprinkle the meat tenderizer powder evenly over the surface of the meat.
2. Massage into Meat: Use your fingers to gently massage the powder into the meat.
3. Marinate or Let Rest: Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Alternatively, let it rest at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
4. Cook as Desired: Cook the meat using your preferred method, whether it’s grilling, roasting, or pan-frying.
Benefits of Using Homemade Meat Tenderizer Powder
- Tenderizes Meat: The salt and baking soda in the powder help break down the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender.
- Enhances Flavor: The spices and herbs add a burst of flavor to your meat, elevating its taste.
- Saves Time: Marinating with homemade meat tenderizer powder reduces cooking time, making meal preparation a breeze.
- Versatile: Use the powder on a variety of meats, including beef, pork, chicken, and lamb.
Variations on Meat Tenderizer Powder
- Spicy Blend: Add 1-2 tablespoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
- Sweet and Savory Blend: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar or honey for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Herb Blend: Replace the dried thyme and oregano with other herbs like rosemary, basil, or sage.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use sea salt instead of regular salt?
A: Yes, you can substitute sea salt for regular salt in the same amount.
Q: Can I omit the baking soda?
A: Baking soda is essential for tenderizing the meat. Omitting it will reduce the effectiveness of the powder.
Q: How much meat tenderizer powder should I use per pound of meat?
A: Use approximately 1-2 tablespoons of meat tenderizer powder per pound of meat.
Q: Can I use the powder to marinate seafood?
A: Yes, the powder can be used to marinate seafood, but reduce the marinating time to 15-30 minutes to prevent the seafood from becoming too mushy.
Q: How long can I store the meat tenderizer powder?
A: Store the meat tenderizer powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
