The best barbecue marinade, unusual recipes for a summer barbecue

Grilling meat is not only a traditional method of preparing food, but also a passion and an art for many, which is passed down from generation to generation. What makes barbecuing so special and irresistible is often the way the meat is marinated before you put it on the hot coals.

Grilling marinade is often called the soul of grilling, and rightfully so. It represents a magical combination of various ingredients that give the meat a specific taste, aroma and juiciness. A well-prepared barbecue marinade is the secret to the success of any barbecue. So it’s no surprise that some grill masters spend years developing and perfecting their secret marinade recipes.

In our article, we present to you 20 irresistible marinade recipes that are as diverse as they are amazing. Whether you are looking for classic sweet and sour combinations, bold spicy flavors, delicate herb or exotic fruit marinades, our selection offers something for everyone.

Grilling is much more than just a method of cooking. It’s a way to connect with your loved ones, enjoy good food and create unforgettable memories. And while technique and quality ingredients are important, it’s the marinades that often define the whole experience.

This article is intended not only for experienced barbecue enthusiasts, but also for those who are just starting out. Each barbecue marinade is described clearly and comprehensibly with step-by-step instructions so you can achieve perfect results regardless of your skill level. Do you want to know how to combine herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of your favorite meat? You will find all the answers in our article.

Take your time and immerse yourself in the world of flavors that will excite your taste buds and excite everyone, from small children to the most demanding gourmets. With our recipes, every barbecue becomes an unforgettable gourmet experience that you will want to repeat again and again.

Classic BBQ Marinade

One of the most common and popular marinades is the classic BBQ marinade. Mix 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 cloves garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika. This marinade is great for pork ribs, chicken or beef.

Citrus-Garlic Marinade

Citrus and garlic are the perfect combination for a light and fresh marinade. Mix the juice and zest of 2 lemons, 4 cloves of garlic, ½ cup olive oil, salt and black pepper to taste. This marinade is ideal for chicken breast or fish.

Teriyaki Marinade

Teriyaki is a traditional Japanese marinade that is the perfect choice for grilling meat. Mix 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon ginger, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water. This marinade is great for beef or chicken.

Honey-Mustard Marinade

Honey and mustard are a classic combination that creates a sweet and spicy marinade. Mix 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup olive oil. This marinade is great for chicken.

Spanish pepper marinade

This aromatic barbecue marinade adds a rich, sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the meat. Mix 4 cloves of garlic, 2 teaspoons of paprika, a pinch of chili flakes, 1/2 cup of olive oil and the juice of 1 lemon. This marinade is great for chicken or pork.

Greek yogurt marinade

This tangy and fresh barbecue marinade is perfect for lamb or chicken. Mix 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt and black pepper to taste.

Korean BBQ marinade

This sweet, salty and slightly spicy barbecue marinade is perfect for beef or chicken. Mix 1/2 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon ground Korean chili pepper (gochugaru), and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger.

Marinade with red wine and rosemary

This rich and aromatic barbecue marinade is perfect for beef or lamb. Mix 1 cup red wine, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, salt and black pepper to taste.

Indian curry marinade

This spicy and flavorful barbecue marinade is great on chicken or tofu. Mix 1 cup of yogurt, 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger, salt and black pepper to taste.

Chimichurri Marinade

Chimichurri, originally from Argentina, is an excellent herb marinade for grilling. Mix 1 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves, 4 cloves garlic, 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, salt and black pepper to taste. This marinade is ideal for beef, especially steaks.

Provençal herb marinade

Inspired by the flavors of southern France. This barbecue marinade is great for beef or chicken. Mix ½ cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, salt and black pepper to taste.

Marinade with lemon and parsley

This fresh and herbal marinade is perfect for chicken or fish. Mix the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, salt and black pepper to taste.

Marinade with honey and chamomile

This mild and aromatic marinade is great for chicken or pork. Mix 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon dried chamomile, salt and black pepper to taste.

Marinade with herbs and yogurt

This sour and herb barbecue marinade is great for lamb or chicken. Mix 1 cup yogurt, 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, oregano), 2 cloves garlic, salt and black pepper to taste.

Onion marinade

This marinade is perfect for beef, chicken, pork or even fish. Mix 1 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, 2 cloves garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.

Pineapple marinade

This sweet and sour marinade is perfect for chicken or pork. Mix 1 cup of pineapple juice, ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper.

Citrus marinade

This fresh and sour marinade is great for chicken or fish. Mix the juice and zest of 1 lemon, 1 orange and 1 lime, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, salt and black pepper to taste.

Marinade with apple vinegar and honey

This slightly sweet and sour marinade is perfect for pork or chicken. Mix 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, salt and black pepper to taste.

Marinade with raspberry vinegar

This sweet and fruity barbecue marinade is great for beef or fish. Mix ½ cup raspberry vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt and black pepper to taste.

Orange mint marinade

This fresh and fruity barbecue marinade is perfect for chicken or fish. Mix the juice and zest of 2 oranges, 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves, ¼ cup olive oil, 2 cloves garlic, salt and black pepper to taste.

These marinades cover a wide range of flavors, so you can try something new every time you grill. Make sure you marinate the meat long enough – at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight – to allow the meat to fully absorb the flavors. Before grilling, the marinade should be removed from the meat to prevent it from burning. However, you can use it to rub the meat while grilling, which will add even more flavor to the meat.

Let these marinades write the story of your grilling season and discover new flavors on hot summer days with your loved ones.

Barbecue marinade questions and answers