FoodPickle brine: The secret ingredient for tender and juicy pork neck

Pickle brine: The secret ingredient for tender and juicy pork neck

The best marinade for pork neck
The best marinade for pork neck
Images source: © Adobe Stock

5 September 2024 12:33

Pickled cucumbers are a true treasure enjoyed by generations. After the pickles are eaten, a sour liquid remains in the jar, which some people use as a remedy for hangovers or simply drink for its taste and health benefits. The pickle brine can also be used to create a delicious marinade. Thanks to it, every piece of pork neck will melt in your mouth.

As soon as the pickles are gone from the jar, it’s a sign that it’s time to roast a pork neck. A marinade based on pickle brine will tender the meat and melt in your mouth with every bite. The recipe is simple but will change your perspective on pork neck.

Pickle brine

It looks unimpressive, but it's more than just a pregnancy craving or a jar of leftovers. Pouring it down the drain means wasting a truly valuable product. During pickling, numerous beneficial bacteria are created that support gut flora, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.

Water from pickled cucumbers is a valuable ingredient in dishes.
Water from pickled cucumbers is a valuable ingredient in dishes.© Adobe Stock

Pickle brine contains B vitamins, vitamin C, and potassium, sodium, and magnesium minerals. Thanks to its antioxidant compounds, pickle brine can help reduce inflammation in the body.

The best pork neck marinade

You must make a delicious marinade to prepare meat that even Gordon Ramsay wouldn't be ashamed of. This marinade, made from pickle brine, makes the meat exceptionally tasty and aromatic. It works not only for grilling but also for baking in an ovenproof dish or special bag.

The perfect marinade for pork neck - Deliciousness
The perfect marinade for pork neck - Deliciousness© Canva | xilius

Ingredients:          

  • 1 kilogram of pork neck,
  • 250 millilitres of pickle brine,
  • 2 cloves of garlic,
  • 2 tablespoons of oil,
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard,
  • 1 teaspoon of ground paprika,
  • 1 teaspoon of pepper,
  • 1 teaspoon of salt.

Preparation method:

  1. In a large bowl, combine pickle brine, pressed garlic, oil, mustard, ground paprika, pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  2. Wash the pork neck, pat dry, and cut into slices about 2 centimetres thick. Coat each slice thoroughly in the prepared marinade.
  3. Place the marinated meat in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the pork neck to absorb all the flavours and become juicier.
  4. Remove the pork neck from the fridge and place it on the grill. Grill for 7-8 minutes on each side until the meat is well-cooked and juicy. Be sure not to grill the pork neck on too high a heat to prevent it from becoming tough. You can also bake the pork neck in the oven.

Serve the ready meat with your favourite sides. Enjoy your meal!

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