Yes, it is generally a good practice to season your meat ahead of time before grilling or baking. Seasoning meat in advance allows the flavors of the spices and seasonings to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste throughout. This process is commonly referred to as "marinating" the meat.
When you season meat and let it sit for a period of time, the salt and other seasonings help to break down the proteins on the surface, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. This not only adds flavor but can also help to tenderize tougher cuts of meat.
Here are a few tips for seasoning meat ahead of time:
Timing: The duration of the marinating process depends on the type of meat and the flavors you desire. Generally, marinating for at least 30 minutes to a few hours can make a noticeable difference. For tougher cuts of meat, you may want to marinate for several hours or even overnight.
Salt: Salt is a fundamental seasoning that helps to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Sprinkling salt on the meat before marinating can draw out moisture, which then gets reabsorbed, bringing the seasonings deeper into the meat. Be mindful of the salt quantity, as excessive salt can overpower the taste.
Marinades and Rubs: Marinades are liquid mixtures typically consisting of an acidic component (such as citrus juice or vinegar), oil, herbs, spices, and other flavorings. Rubs, on the other hand, are dry mixtures of herbs, spices, and seasonings. Both marinades and rubs can be used to season meat before cooking, providing different flavor profiles.
Storage: When marinating meat, it's important to keep it refrigerated to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Place the meat and marinade in a sealed container or a zip-top bag and refrigerate it. Make sure to turn the meat occasionally to ensure even distribution of the flavors.
Patting dry: Before grilling or baking, remove the meat from the marinade and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step helps to remove excess moisture from the surface of the meat, allowing for better browning and caramelization during cooking.
Remember that marinating meat in advance is not always necessary. Some cuts of meat, such as tender steaks, can be delicious with just a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper right before cooking. However, for certain recipes and desired flavor profiles, marinating ahead of time can be a valuable technique to enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat.