Copycat Longhorn's Marinade

Adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste.

For added flavor, include fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the marinade.

If you are using wood skewers for kebabs, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Use a resealable plastic bag for marinating to save space and help with even coverage of the marinade.

Experiment with adding spices like black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Feel free to customize the marinade to taste by adding ingredients like ginger, sesame oil, or citrus juices.

Adding sliced green onions or sesame seeds can provide a nice garnish once the meat is cooked.

For added flavor, marinate meats overnight unless using seafood or delicate proteins.

Experiment with different types of teriyaki sauce for varied flavors, some may be sweeter or spicier than others.

When grilling, make sure your grill is preheated to achieve a good sear, locking in the marinade flavors.

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?

You can substitute bourbon with other spirits like whiskey or rum or even a dark beer. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this marinade?

You can create a non-alcoholic version by using a combination of apple cider vinegar and a touch of molasses or a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute mixed with teriyaki sauce.

How long can I marinate the meat?

You can marinate the meat for 2-6 hours, depending on the type of meat and desired flavor intensity. For tougher cuts, longer marinating might be beneficial.

Can I use this marinade for vegetables?

Yes, this marinade can also be used for vegetables. You can just use it as a baste while grilling (no need to marinate).

Why do I need to discard the marinade after use?

The marinade should be discarded after use to prevent cross-contamination, as it has been in contact with raw meat.

Can I reuse the marinade for basting while cooking?

You can use the marinade as a baste while grilling or broiling, but make sure to reserve some before adding the raw meat to avoid contamination.

What kind of meats work best with this marinade?

Steaks, pork chops, chicken breasts, and shrimp tend to work best with this marinade, absorbing flavors while tenderizing. You can use it as a baste on fish while grilling or baking (it tends to be too strong as a marinade for fish but works well as a baste).

Can this marinade be stored for later use?

You can store unused marinade in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Be sure to discard any marinade that has come into contact with raw meat.

Can I add other ingredients to this marinade?

You can add herbs and spices such as ginger, black pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes for heat and additional flavor.

Can I use garlic powder instead of garlic juice?

You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but use less, about half a teaspoon should suffice for a similar flavor punch.

Can I freeze the marinade?

Yes, unused marinade can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months.

Mixing Bowl: For combining the bourbon, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and garlic juice, making sure that the ingredients are well mixed until the brown sugar dissolves.

Measuring Cups: For measuring 1 cup each of bourbon and light teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon each of brown sugar and garlic juice.

Zip-Top Plastic Bag (optional): Alternatively used for mixing the marinade by combining all ingredients and adding the meat to marinate.

Grilled Chicken: Use the marinade to brush on grilled chicken for a smoky, sweet flavor. The bourbon and teriyaki create a nice balance of savory and sweet that works well with chicken.

Stir-Fried Vegetables: Toss fresh vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli in the marinade for a colorful and flavorful side dish. The marinade adds flavor that makes simple vegetables more exciting.

Shrimp Skewers: Marinate shrimp in the bourbon teriyaki mixture before skewering and grilling. The quick cook time allows the flavors to infuse without overpowering the delicate taste of the shrimp.

Sliders: Brush the marinade on mini beef patties while grilling, then serve on soft buns with a slice of grilled pineapple for sweetness.

Glazed Carrots: Use the marinade as a glaze for roasted or sauteed carrots. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs well with the bourbon notes.

Dipping Sauce: Reduce the marinade in a saucepan to create a glaze or dipping sauce. This concentrated version can be used for appetizers like egg rolls or chicken wings, providing a flavorful kick.

Pork Tenderloin: Marinate a pork tenderloin in this concoction to infuse it with rich flavors.

Glazed Salmon: Baste salmon fillets with the marinade while grilling. The rich flavor of the bourbon pairs beautifully with the fatty fish.

Marinade for Tofu: Marinate tofu in the mixture for a simple vegetarian option. The marinade adds flavor and absorbs into the protein, making sure the tofu is anything but bland.

Sweet Potato Fries: Serve sweet potato fries with a side of the marinade as a dipping sauce. The sweetness in both the fries and the sauce will complement each other while the bourbon adds a sophisticated touch.