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Master Buttermilk Brine

3.7

(406)

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Matt Duckor

Not only will this all-purpose brine lend tangy flavor to whatever’s soaked in it, the buttermilk will also tenderize any meats, like chicken or pork, that hang out long enough. This recipe makes enough to soak 3½ to 4 pounds of chicken, whole or cut into pieces.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 1 quart

Ingredients

1

quart buttermilk

4

teaspoons kosher salt

1

teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Whole chicken and/or chicken pieces

Need to make a substitution?

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Add chicken and chill at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before using.

  2. Curry

    Step 2

    Add 4 teaspoons curry powder, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, and 2 teaspoons ground turmeric.

  3. Chipotle

    Step 3

    Add 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from a can of chipotle chiles in adobo.

  4. Louisiana-Style

    Step 4

    Add 2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons Tabasco, and 2 teaspoons celery seeds.

  5. Lemon-Dill

    Step 5

    Add 2 thinly sliced lemons, 4 finely grated garlic cloves, and 2 cups chopped fresh dill.

Explore Bon AppétitButtermilkGluten-FreeNut-Free