Marination is the process of soaking foods in a seasoned, often acidic, liquid before cooking. The origin of the word alludes to the use of brine (aqua marina) in the pickling process, which led to the technique of adding flavor by immersion in liquid. The liquid in question, the 'marinade', can be either acidic (made with ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice, or wine) or enzymatic (made with ingredients such as pineapple, papaya or kiwifruit). In addition to these ingredients, a marinade often contains oils, herbs, and spices to further flavor the food items.
Food Property | Type | Description |
---|---|---|
Flavor Profile | Sweet | Oriental marinade typically has a balanced level of sweetness from ingredients like sugar or honey. |
Sour | Oriental marinade may have a hint of sourness from vinegar or citrus juices to balance out the sweetness. | |
Salty | Oriental marinade is usually salty from soy sauce or other salty seasonings. | |
Umami | Oriental marinade often contains ingredients like soy sauce, miso, or mushrooms, which contribute to its umami flavor. | |
Texture | Moisture | Oriental marinade may contain ingredients like oil or liquid seasonings to add moisture to the food being marinated. |
Nutritional Value | Macronutrients | Oriental marinade can provide carbohydrates, proteins, and fats depending on its ingredients. |
Micronutrients | Oriental marinade may contain vitamins and minerals from ingredients like garlic, ginger, and herbs. | |
Aroma | Volatile Compounds | Oriental marinade can have a complex aroma profile from the combination of ingredients like garlic, ginger, and spices. |
Chemical Composition | Acidity/Alkalinity (pH) | Oriental marinade may have a slightly acidic pH due to ingredients like vinegar or citrus juices. |
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