My "Go to" Marinade

Shanghai Marinade

I modified this recipe from one that was originally in Gourmet magazine in the 70's when Teriaki was so popular. It's very versatile, and has been my "go to" marinade for grilling ever since.

1/3 c. soy sauce
1/3 c. good Sherry (see *tip below)
1/3 c. peanut oil
1 tablespoon sugar
3 medium cloves garlic, minced or pressed
Tabasco sauce, several healthy shakes (3 or more)
Two or three strips of lemon rind, twisted to release flavor (2" long x 1/2" wide)

For thickening slurry:
2 Tablespoons of Sherry
1 Heaping tablespoon cornstarch

Mix all ingredients together (omitting the last two slurry ingredients) until thoroughly emulsified. pour into a large Ziploc bag, or whatever container you'll be marinating your meat in. I use a Tupperware type container.
Add meat. Refrigerate at least two hours. Shake, or stir occasionally to ensure good absorption.
When ready to grill, remove meat from container and reserve marinade.
While meat is cooking, pour marinade into small saucepot and bring to a simmer.
Meanwhile: in a small bowl or cup; mix a slurry of the cornstarch and the 2 Tbsp. Sherry. When the marinade comes to a boil gradually add the slurry mixing constantly until marinade is thick enough for basting. If you need to make more of the cornstarch slurry; do so, this time adding just enough Sherry to dissolve the cornstarch. Start basting the meat about ten minutes before it's done.

*Tip:
For beef kabobs or pork, I use Sweet Sherry.
For chicken I use Dry Sherry, or Vermouth.
For a larger beef roast, I'll often use Tawny Port
Remember: if you wouldn't drink it, don't cook with it!

Dip it!

Sausage Dip
Preparation: 50 minutes

This is great for a larger crowd, as it makes about 5 cups dip.

1 pound bulk pork sausage
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced fine or pressed
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
2 cups (16 ounces) sour cream
Tortilla chips



In a large skillet, cook the sausage, onion and green pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
Stir in tomatoes, garlic, salt, pepper and chilies. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add cream cheese; stir until melted. Stir in sour cream. Transfer to a fondue pot or small crock pot and keep warm. Serve with tortilla chips.