Smoky barbecue marinade

This Smoky Barbecue Marinade infuses rich, smoky flavours into meats or vegetables through a mix of garlic, paprika, and maple syrup. Ideal for grilling, it balances sweetness with tangy and savory notes.

17 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp paprika
2 tsp brown sugar
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp BBQ sauce
Smoky barbecue marinade

This Smoky Barbecue Marinade is perfect for adding a rich, smoky flavor to your favorite meats. Whether you're grilling chicken, beef, or vegetables, this marinade combines sweet, tangy, and savory notes for a delicious finish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic:
- Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince or crush them.
2. Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the minced garlic.
- Measure and add 1 tablespoon of paprika.
- Sprinkle in the 2 teaspoons of brown sugar.
- Pour in 1/3 cup of maple syrup.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Finally, add the 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce.
3. Mix the Marinade:
- Using a whisk or a spoon, mix all the ingredients well until they are fully combined. Ensure that the brown sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Marinate:
- Choose your preferred meat (like chicken, pork, or beef) or vegetables.
- Place the chosen item in a sealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over it, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate and allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate overnight.
5. Cook:
- Remove the marinated item from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Grill, bake, or cook according to your recipe's instructions.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the cooked item hot and enjoy the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of the barbecue marinade!

This Smoky Barbecue Marinade is a versatile and flavorful addition to your grilling repertoire. With its balanced combination of sweetness and smokiness, it can transform ordinary meat or vegetables into a mouth-watering delight. Experiment with different marinating times and enjoy a perfect barbecue experience every time.

Smoky barbecue marinade FAQ:

How long should I marinate the meat in this barbecue marinade?

For the best flavor, marinate your meat for at least 1 hour. For optimal results, marinating overnight is recommended.

Can I use this marinade for vegetables?

Yes, this smoky barbecue marinade is great for vegetables as well. Just ensure the vegetables are cut into similar sizes to absorb the flavors evenly.

What type of vinegar works best in this marinade?

You can use any mild vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, for balanced acidity, but avoid strong flavored vinegars that can overpower the marinade.

How should I store leftover marinade?

Leftover marinade can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s not recommended to reuse marinades that have been in contact with raw meat.

Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a similar sweetness, but be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Tips:

- Ensure your meat is at room temperature before marinating to allow for even absorption.

- For best results, marinate your meat for at least two hours, but overnight is preferable.

- Use a ziplock bag for marinating to ensure even coverage and easier clean-up.

- If you don’t consume alcohol, you can replace vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

- Consider using smoked paprika for an extra layer of smokiness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 33kcal
Protein 0.69g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 1.42g
Sugar 4.37g
Fat 3.91g

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