Prepared steaks for the BBQ (9) - Crossword Clue
Answer: MARINATED
Understanding the Clue: Prepared Steaks for the BBQ
- MARINATED is the perfect 9-letter answer to this crossword clue, as it describes the essential process of preparing steaks before grilling them on the barbecue.
- When you marinate meat, you soak it in a seasoned liquid mixture to enhance flavor and tenderness, making it a fundamental technique for BBQ preparation.
Why MARINATED Fits This Crossword Clue
- The word "marinated" naturally connects to BBQ preparation in several ways.
- This culinary technique involves immersing steaks in a flavorful mixture of oils, acids, herbs, and spices before cooking.
- Professional chefs and home cooks alike recognize marinating as the gold standard for preparing premium BBQ steaks that are both tender and delicious.
Tips for Perfectly Marinated Steaks
- Timing matters greatly - Marinate tender steaks for 2-4 hours, while tougher cuts need 6-24 hours for optimal results.
- Always refrigerate while marinating - Never leave meat at room temperature, as bacteria multiply rapidly above 40°F.
- Use non-reactive containers - Glass, ceramic, or food-grade plastic bags work best, as metal can react with acidic ingredients.
- Pat dry before grilling - Remove excess marinade and dry the surface to achieve better searing and grill marks.
- Reserve some marinade - Set aside unused marinade before adding raw meat if you want to use it as a sauce later.
- Don't reuse raw marinades - Always boil used marinade for at least 5 minutes before using as a sauce to kill bacteria.
Prepared steaks for the BBQ (9) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: What's the best marinade for BBQ steaks?
Classic BBQ marinades typically combine oil (olive or vegetable), acid (vinegar, citrus, or wine), seasonings (garlic, herbs, spices), and sometimes soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Popular combinations include teriyaki, herb and garlic, or chimichurri-style marinades.
Q: Should you poke holes in steak before marinating?
No, poking holes actually releases valuable juices and doesn't significantly improve marinade penetration. Marinades primarily flavor the surface, while natural muscle grain provides sufficient pathways for flavor absorption.
Q: Do you need to flip steaks while marinating?
Yes, flipping steaks halfway through marinating ensures even flavor distribution. If using a zip-top bag, you can simply flip the entire bag. For containers, turn each piece individually.
Q: Can you marinate frozen steaks?
It's best to thaw steaks completely before marinating, as frozen meat cannot absorb flavors effectively. Thaw in the refrigerator, then marinate according to your recipe's timing guidelines.
