Fruity Mustard Marinade

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES

This marinade tastes terrific on anything from veal breast to chops, and venison backstrap to pot roast. Nearly any fruit can be a candidate to flavor these meats before or after cooking. The hit of mustard protects the marinade from any cloying sweetness.

The Fruity Mustard Marinade brings together the enticing flavors of tangy cranberry, rich sherry, zesty Dijon mustard, and a hint of ginger to create a marinade that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. This marinade is your ticket to infusing your chosen meat with a symphony of delicious tastes, resulting in succulent and flavorful dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or smoking, the Fruity Mustard Marinade adds a touch of elegance and a burst of fruity vibrancy to your culinary creations.

MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1½ cups cran-apple or sweetened cranberry juice
• ¼ cup dry or semi-dry sherry
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cayenne, optional

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the cran-apple or sweetened cranberry juice, dry or semi-dry sherry, Dijon mustard, minced fresh ginger, vegetable oil, kosher salt (or coarse sea salt), and ground cayenne if you desire an extra kick. Alternatively, you can combine these ingredients in a large zipper-lock plastic bag.
2. Marinate the Meat: Place your chosen meat in a container or plastic bag suitable for marinating. Pour the prepared marinade over the meat, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow the meat to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes at room temperature, or wrap and cover it and refrigerate for up to overnight. This marinating time allows the flavors to permeate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness.
3. Cook the Marinated Meat: Cook the marinated meat according to your preferred method. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or smoking, the Fruity Mustard Marinade will infuse the meat with its delightful blend of flavors, creating a juicy and delectable dish.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Present the marinated meat as the star of your dinner table, accompanied by a variety of sides that complement the fruity and savory notes of the marinade.
• Pair the marinated meat with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables to balance the flavors and textures of the dish.
• Drizzle any remaining marinade over the cooked meat before serving to enhance the flavors and provide an extra burst of deliciousness.

VARIATION:

• For an even fruitier and slightly boozy twist, perfect for smoke cooking, consider adding several tablespoons of currant liqueur to the marinade. This variation will enhance the fruity profile of the marinade and pair beautifully with accompaniments like Roasted Grapes or Blackberry-Sage Sauce.

SPICING TIP:

• Experiment with different meats to experience the versatility of the Fruity Mustard Marinade. From chicken and pork to lamb and beef, this marinade will add a delightful touch to your dishes, elevating their flavor and making each bite an unforgettable experience.