Do-It-All Marinade

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

A versatile marinade with soy sauce, lemon, and onion that infuses meats and vegetables with bold, savory flavors, perfect for grilling or as a quick sauce accompaniment.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup Kikkoman soy sauce
  • juice from 1 large lemon (approximately 3 to 4 Tbsp)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced very thin and separated
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place onion slices in a large Ziploc bag.
  2. Pour in soy sauce and lemon juice.
  3. Add black pepper; close the bag and shake to combine.
  4. Add your choice of meat to the bag.
  5. Marinate for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 1 hour.
  6. Grill to desired doneness.
  7. Discard leftover marinade.
  8. If using as a sauce, place all ingredients in a bowl, stir, and cover.
  9. Let sit for at least one hour at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a day.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider marinating overnight. If you're out of soy sauce, tamari works as a gluten-free substitute. You can also add minced garlic or ginger for an extra kick. Experiment with different citrus juices like lime or orange for varied taste profiles. Consider using it with vegetables for a vegan option, enhancing dishes like stir-fries or grilled kebabs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your marinated grilled meat alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Nettie'S Applesauce-Pineapple Salad, adding a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with rice or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious juices.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover marinade can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you've marinated meat, it’s best to discard the marinade afterward. To reheat cooked meat, microwave it gently or warm it in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture and flavor. Always ensure it's heated through before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Do-It-All Marinade contains roughly 126 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

126 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 1.3g 2% DV
Carbs 31.6g 12% DV
Fiber 6.4g 23% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 55.9mg 2% DV
Potassium 770.4mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.6mg 2% DV
Calcium 150.2mg 12% DV
Iron 7.4mg 41% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this marinade for vegetables?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully for vegetables as well. Simply toss your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms in the marinade and let them soak for at least 15 minutes before grilling or sautéing. It's a great way to enhance flavors in vegan recipes.

How long can I marinate meat?

For best results, marinate meat for at least 30 minutes and no longer than 1 hour. If marinating seafood, stick to 15-30 minutes to avoid a mushy texture. Always remember that the acidity in lemon juice can break down proteins if left too long.

Can I freeze the marinade?

Yes, you can freeze the marinade before adding meat. Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and add your desired protein for a flavorful dish.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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