Raw Honey Marinades for Meats
Raw honey adds flavor and tenderness to meat marinades. Here are recipes for chicken, beef, and salmon that balance sweet and savory perfectly.
Raw honey's natural sugars caramelize beautifully on the grill while its enzymes tenderize proteins. Use it to craft marinades that balance sweetness, acid, and spice for juicy, flavorful meats.
Benefits of Using Raw Honey in Marinades
Raw honey helps meat retain moisture, encourages browning, and adds complex flavor notes. Its antibacterial properties can also support food safety when combined with acidic ingredients like citrus or vinegar. Choose a robust wildflower honey for red meats and a lighter orange blossom honey for poultry or fish.
Honey Marinade Recipes
Chicken marinade
- 1/4 cup raw honey
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine ingredients, marinate chicken for 2-4 hours, then grill over medium heat.
Pork glaze
- 1/3 cup raw honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
Brush over pork chops or tenderloin during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Salmon honey marinade
- 3 tablespoons raw honey
- 2 tablespoons tamari
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Marinate salmon for 30 minutes, then bake at 375°F until flaky. Finish with a squeeze of lime.
Tips for Grilling with Honey
- Oil grates well to prevent sticking.
- Apply honey glazes during the final minutes to avoid burning.
- Reserve some marinade for drizzling after cooking.
For more sweet-meets-savory ideas, try Raw Honey Salad Dressings: Easy Recipes and Ideas.
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