5 Delicious Meat Recipes You Have to Try Tonight

Who doesn't love a great plate of meat? Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or just seeking a satisfying dinner, these 5 delicious meat recipes are sure to add some zest to your weekly menu. From savory braised short ribs to a uniquely juicy chicken parmesan, each dish offers a different flavor profile and cooking technique to master.

Beef Short Ribs Braised in Red Wine

Short ribs are a cut of beef that, when braised properly, become incredibly tender and flavorful. Here’s a simple yet elegant recipe for Beef Short Ribs Braised in Red Wine:

• 6-8 beef short ribs
• 1 bottle of good quality red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs of rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. Brown them in a hot pan until they have a nice crust.
2. Remove the ribs, and in the same pan, sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until aromatic.
3. Add the red wine, beef broth, and rosemary. Return the ribs to the pot.
4. Bring to a simmer, then transfer to a slow cooker or oven at 325°F for about 3-4 hours.

⚠️ Note: Short ribs are best when cooked low and slow. This allows the collagen to break down, making the meat tender and succulent.

Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto

If you’re in the mood for something a little more refined, Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Pesto is a perfect choice. Here’s how to make it:

• 8 lamb chops, trimmed
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh mint leaves
• ¹⁄₄ cup pine nuts, toasted
• Grated Parmesan
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

1. Mix olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest; marinate the chops for 1 hour.
2. Prepare the mint pesto by blending mint, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Grill the chops to your desired doneness. Let them rest before serving with a dollop of mint pesto on top.

Southern Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a beloved dish with versions in every culinary culture. Here’s a classic take on Southern Fried Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tbsp hot sauce
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¹⁄₂ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper

Steps:

1. Soak chicken in a mix of buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 2 hours.
2. Mix flour with spices to create a seasoned dredge.
3. Coat each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through.

Herb-Crusted Pork Loin Roast

A Herb-Crusted Pork Loin Roast offers a succulent and flavorful option for any occasion. Here’s the recipe:

• 2 lb pork loin roast
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
• 1 tbsp chopped thyme
• 1 tbsp sage leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

1. Rub the pork with mustard and then with a blend of herbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Roast in a preheated oven at 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
3. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Chicken Parmesan with a Twist

The classic Chicken Parmesan gets a delicious twist with this recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¹⁄₂ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, beaten
• Marinara sauce
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese

Steps:

1. Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness.
2. Dip in egg, then coat with a mixture of panko, Parmesan, and seasoning.
3. Fry until golden, then layer with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.

These recipes showcase the versatility of meat and how different cooking techniques and flavors can transform simple ingredients into extraordinary meals. Each dish offers a unique experience that caters to various tastes and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for something to impress guests or simply enhance your family dinner, these recipes provide a delightful journey through the flavors of beef, lamb, chicken, and pork.

How do I know when my meat is perfectly cooked?

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The best way to ensure meat is perfectly cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Here are the ideal internal temperatures:

• Beef (medium-rare): 135°F
• Chicken: 165°F
• Pork: 145°F
• Lamb: 145°F

Can I substitute wine in the braised short ribs recipe?

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Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with beef or chicken stock for a similar rich flavor. However, consider using balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar to add depth to the flavor profile.

What’s the secret to crispy Southern Fried Chicken?

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The key to crispy fried chicken is:

• Marinating in buttermilk which tenderizes the meat and creates a reaction with the flour for extra crunch.
• Maintaining oil temperature between 350-375°F.
• Not overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispness.