Spicy barbecue marinade

This spicy barbecue marinade combines soy sauce, vinegar, and honey with red hot chili peppers and garlic for a flavorful kick. Perfect for marinating meats, vegetables, or tofu before grilling or roasting.

03 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup vinegar
1 tbsp peanut oil
1 tbsp honey
2 red hot chili peppers
2 garlic cloves
Spicy barbecue marinade

Are you looking to add a burst of flavor to your favorite grilled dishes? This spicy barbecue marinade is the perfect way to elevate your meals with a balance of heat, tang, and sweetness. Combining soy sauce, vinegar, and honey with the kick of red hot chili peppers and the aromatic touch of garlic, this marinade is ideal for meats, vegetables, and even tofu. Let's dive into how you can prepare this versatile and delicious marinade.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the red hot chili peppers. Be cautious and consider wearing gloves to avoid getting the chili on your skin.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of soy sauce.
- Add 1/3 cup of vinegar.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of peanut oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey. Make sure to mix well so the honey dissolves evenly.
3. Mix in the Aromatics:
- Add the finely chopped chili peppers to the bowl.
- Stir in the minced garlic. Ensure that all the ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Blend the Marinade:
- Use a whisk or fork to thoroughly blend the mixture until it’s uniform in color and texture.
5. Marinate Your Protein:
- Choose your preferred protein (chicken, beef, pork, tofu, etc.).
- Place the protein in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the spicy barbecue marinade over the protein, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish.
6. Marination Time:
- Allow the protein to marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator for best results. For a more intense flavor, marinate overnight.
7. Cook Your Protein:
- Once marinated, remove the protein from the marinade (consider discarding the used marinade to avoid contamination unless boiling it thoroughly to use as a sauce).
- Cook your protein on a barbecue grill, in the oven, or on a stovetop according to your recipe’s instructions, until it reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safe consumption.
8. Serve:
- Enjoy your deliciously spicy and tangy barbecue protein! Complement with sides like grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or rice.

With a few simple ingredients and some quick mixing, you've created a marinade that will take your grilling game to the next level. This spicy barbecue marinade is sure to impress with its dynamic flavors, whether you're hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a weeknight dinner. Allow it to work its magic by marinating your chosen protein or vegetables to infuse them with deliciousness. Happy grilling!

Spicy barbecue marinade FAQ:

How long should I marinate the protein in this spicy barbecue marinade?

For best results, marinate the protein for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator. For a more intense flavor, consider marinating overnight.

What type of vinegar can I use in this marinade?

You can use any type of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, or rice vinegar. Choose one that complements the flavor profile you prefer.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of peanut oil?

Yes, you can substitute peanut oil with other oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil depending on your taste preference and dietary restrictions.

How do I know when my marinated protein is fully cooked?

Ensure that the protein reaches the appropriate internal temperature: chicken should be 165°F (74°C), beef varies by cut, and pork should be 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What should I do with the leftover marinade?

It's best to discard the leftover marinade to avoid contamination, unless you boil it thoroughly for at least 5 minutes, which will make it safe to use as a sauce.

Tips:

- For best results, allow your protein or vegetables to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably several hours or overnight.

- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili peppers you use or by substituting with milder chili varieties if desired.

- If you prefer a smoother marinade, finely chop the garlic and chili peppers or use a blender to combine all ingredients.

- This marinade can double as a sauce; just reserve a portion before adding it to raw meat to avoid cross-contamination.

- Store any unused marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 1.95g
Carbohydrates 3.93g
Fiber 0.39g
Sugar 2.22g
Fat 2.68g

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