You Need To Start Adding Olive Brine To Your Marinades ASAP

Olive brine is potent stuff, which is why it's a key ingredient for the perfect dirty martini and a secret weapon to elevate deviled eggs. It's well worth it to explore how to use it up rather than tossing it out, as the salty, umami-rich juice packs a powerful punch. One fabulous way to make use of it is to add it to your favorite marinades. Since the brine is composed of vinegar, salt, and seasonings — as well as mild olive flavor — it works with many different kinds of meats and plant-based proteins. 

Just a splash or two is enough to add acidity and depth to marinades, and it's even flavorful enough to use on its own, serving as a zesty base when combined with a few other ingredients. The salt content in the brine is beneficial for tenderizing proteins, enhancing their juiciness and flavor. However, be mindful of the overall saltiness of your marinade before adding more; it's always wise to taste and adjust as you go to ensure the perfect balance.

A great marinade typically consists of three main components: acid, fat, and aromatics. Olive brine almost fits the bill on its own (you might need to add a fat, like olive oil) by bringing both saltiness and acidity from its vinegar base, making it a flavorful addition to your marinade arsenal. The standard ingredients in brine, plus its subtle olive flavor, complements other acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar well. Olive juice also pairs perfectly with a variety of herbs and spices — from garlic and red pepper to fresh or dried sage, thyme, tarragon, and more — helping you to create dynamic flavor profiles for any and all of your meats.

When using olive brine, as with all marinades, timing is crucial. Marinating food for too long can lead to an overly salty and mushy texture. If you're adding olive brine to your marinade, start with just a little bit and always taste the marinade before adding it to your meat. Alternatively, you can use the brine as a base, mixing it with olive oil, fresh herbs, and your favorite spices. Keep in mind that different olive brands may have slightly varying flavors, so you may want to experiment with flavor combos or adjust your ingredients accordingly. Don't limit yourself to just meat, though. Olive brine is ideal for marinating plant-based proteins and vegetables as well, adding depth and flavor to tasty vegetarian mains or delicious side dishes.