A marinade, first and foremost, adds flavor. If you mix it properly it can add a little tenderness. A marinade forces you to think about what you want to cook with, the ingredients and aromatics that you want to combine. It can tell a story about who you are as a cook. Far fetched? We don't think so. Imagine chicken thighs, coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, ginger, garlic and green onions. Broiled or fried, roasted or braised. Every dish has a story and if you're lucky you can taste where the cook was coming from.
Years Past
February10, 2005