Red Wine Marinade for Lamb and Game Meats

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES 

We drink red wine with lamb and venison, so it makes sense to us to share it with the meat. Strong aromatics—green peppercorns, anchovy paste, and piney juniper berries—pair pleasantly with the mild assertiveness characteristic of lamb and farm-raised venison.

Introduce your palate to the world of luxurious flavors with the Red Wine Marinade for Lamb and Game Meats. This marinade, enriched with the rich essence of red wine, will transform your lamb and game meats into succulent and aromatic culinary masterpieces. The harmonious blend of red wine, spices, and other delightful ingredients will elevate your meat dishes to a new level of indulgence.

MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1¾ cups dry red wine
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon drained green peppercorns
• 2 teaspoons juniper berries, bruised with the side of a chef’s knife
• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste or kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Combine the Flavors: In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients to create a rich and complex marinade. Alternatively, you can conveniently combine the ingredients in a large zipper-lock plastic bag. This step is all about harmonizing the red wine with the diverse range of flavors.
2. Immediate Use or Refrigeration: You have the option to use the marinade right away, or you can refrigerate it in a covered container for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, preparing your marinade for a spectacular meat transformation.
3. Marination Magic: Pour the prepared marinade generously over your lamb or game meats. Allow the meat to sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the marinade to penetrate and infuse the flavors. For a more intensified flavor experience, you can choose to marinate the meat overnight. Simply wrap or cover the meat and place it in the refrigerator.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Grilling: Apply the marinade to your lamb or game meats before grilling. The red wine marinade will enhance the natural richness of the meat, creating a savory and aromatic dish.
• Roasting: Marinating the meat with this blend before roasting introduces a delightful complexity to the dish. The wine-infused marinade will elevate the flavors and keep the meat moist and tender.
• Braising: Consider marinating the meat before braising to add a layer of depth to your dishes. As the meat simmers, the marinade will contribute a luxurious taste to every bite.

VARIATION:

• For those who adore garlic, a variation is at your fingertips. Simply reduce the brown sugar to 1 tablespoon and eliminate the juniper berries. Instead, add 4 or more chopped garlic cloves to the marinade. This variation will add a bold and aromatic garlic touch to your marinade.
• Embrace the art of marination and infuse your lamb and game meats with the Red Wine Marinade for Lamb and Game Meats. The combination of red wine, spices, and other flavors will transport your taste buds on a journey of indulgence, leaving you with unforgettable and delectable meat creations.