What Does Soaking Chicken In Buttermilk Do?
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Every Southern fried chicken recipe advises dredging or soaking the chicken in buttermilk. If you’re wondering why this step is essential, it’s because the secret to perfectly tender and flavorful chicken lies in the buttermilk marinade!
Why soak chicken in buttermilk?
The magic of buttermilk transforms chicken and works wonders! Its acidity tenderizes the meat by subtly breaking down the protein structures. It tenderizes the chicken, preventing it from becoming tough and chewy. As a result, the cooked chicken becomes juicier and more satisfying with each bite.
How long to marinate chicken in buttermilk?
The ideal marinating time for chicken ranges from a minimum of four hours to overnight. This extended period allows the acidity in buttermilk to gradually break down the proteins, tenderizing the meat and improving its ability to retain moisture.
As a result, every bite of chicken becomes not only juicy but also full of flavor once seasoned, elevating a simple meal into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Will regular milk work to marinate chicken?
Milk alone lacks acidity, so it won’t tenderize chicken. It’s the buttermilk’s acidity that’s responsible for tenderizing the meat. However, you can create homemade buttermilk in just 5 minutes by combining milk with apple cider vinegar!
How to make buttermilk: One cup of buttermilk is equivalent to one cup of milk plus one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Should you rinse the chicken after soaking in buttermilk?
Although it might seem necessary, do not rinse the chicken after soaking it in buttermilk. In fact, the flour and seasonings adhere better when the chicken remains damp.
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