Soft drinks as a barbecue marinade?

When you think of soft drinks, you probably think of a refreshing drink on a hot summer’s day. But did you know that soft drinks can also work surprisingly well as a base for a barbecue marinade? The sugars, acids and flavourings in various soft drinks can tenderise meat and create a delicious caramelisation whilst grilling.

One of the best-known examples is cola. Thanks to the combination of sugar and caramel notes, cola has been used for years in marinades for spare ribs, pulled pork and chicken. Whilst grilling, the meat takes on a lovely sheen and a slightly sweet flavour that pairs perfectly with the smoky aromas of the barbecue.

Dr Pepper is also a popular choice amongst BBQ enthusiasts. Its unique blend of fruity and spicy flavours adds extra depth to marinades. Particularly with spare ribs and slow-cooked beef, Dr Pepper creates a surprising flavour combination that’s just that little bit different from a traditional barbecue sauce.

Fruity soft drinks are also used regularly. Fanta Orange, for example, can be incorporated into a marinade for chicken. The citrusy flavour gives the meat a fresh twist and goes down a treat with summer barbecue dishes. Other orange and tropical soft drinks are also often used to give chicken and pork a sweet, fruity flavour.

In the United States, root beer is a popular ingredient in barbecue sauces and marinades. Its spicy flavour pairs well with beef and spare ribs, creating an authentic American BBQ experience.

For those who like to experiment, there are many more possibilities. Energy drinks, ginger ale or even certain iced teas can be used as a base for a marinade or glaze. The most important thing is to find a good balance between sweet, sour and savoury. That’s why soft drinks are often combined with ingredients such as garlic, soya sauce, mustard, honey, herbs and spices.

For example, you can make a simple cola marinade by mixing cola with soya sauce, garlic, a little honey and black pepper. Leave the meat to marinate for a few hours and then grill it on the barbecue. The sugars in the cola create a lovely caramelised crust and a rich flavour.

Although soft drinks might not be the first ingredient that springs to mind when barbecuing, BBQ enthusiasts all over the world have been using them for years to make meat extra flavourful and tender. So next time you fire up the barbecue, why not try a marinade made with cola, Dr Pepper or a fruity soft drink? You’ll be surprised at just how much flavour a simple can of fizzy drink can add to your barbecue dishes.