Table of Contents
Introduction
It’s grilling season, and you’re surrounded by the great outdoors, the miles fading behind you, and the promise of a savoury meal ahead. Grilling on an RV trip offers a unique opportunity to combine the joy of travel with the pleasure of cooking over an open flame. But what takes grilled food from good to great? The secret lies in the preparation. Specifically, the trick is in the marinades and rubs that infuse meats and vegetables with flavour. From chicken marinade to grilled steak to campfire burgers, chicken skewers to juicy grilled pork chops, these rubs and marinades are synonymous with easy grilling recipes.
What are Marinades and Rubs?
Marinades stems from an french word that translates into “pickle in brine”. They are liquid mixtures that contain acids like vinegar or citrus juice, oils, herbs, and spices. They are used to soak meat and vegetables before cooking; one such example is our lemon herb chicken marinade. You can find the recipe below! The point of the marination process is to add flavor and help tenderize tougher cuts of meat.
On the other hand, rubs are blends of dry spices and herbs applied directly onto the surface of the food. A dry rub is a blend of seasonings and spices, without any wet ingredients, that you rub on meat. This might sound kind of like a dry brine, but we’re talking about something else entirely. Rubs form a crust that seals in juices and creates a flavorful, textured exterior. Using either of these methods when preparing your meal will elevate your camping experience.
Benefits of Using Marinades and Rubs for Grilling in an RV
Using marinades and rubs while grilling is all about enhancing taste without the fuss. These mixtures are perfect for on-the-go cooking because they require minimal ingredients and even less prep time. They also help keep your grilling healthy by reducing the need for additional salt or fat. Moreover, marinating and rubbing down your food before grilling can prevent flare-ups caused by dripping fat on that campsite bbq. This has the added benefit of making your RV cooking experience safer and more enjoyable.
7 Mouthwatering Marinades and Rubs
Now that we understand the basics, let’s dive into some delectable recipes. Each marinade or rub is designed to maximize flavor and tenderness of whichever meat you’re using them on. From a classic BBQ marinade that acts as a perfect beef or chicken marinade to a fantastic teriyaki chicken marinade, get ready to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savoury, or a spicy kick, these concoctions will enhance your grilling game.
Classic BBQ Marinade
The Classic BBQ Marinade is a staple that no grill master should be without. It’s a balance of sweetness, tang, and smokiness. Ingredients like brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika work in harmony to produce that quintessential barbecue flavor. It’s perfect for grilled pork chops, chicken marinade, or beef, and it’s easy to whip up with pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 ½ tablespoons dry mustard
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
- 2 dashes hot pepper sauce
Combine brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, water, and Worcestershire sauce in a blender. Season with mustard, paprika, salt, pepper, and hot pepper sauce. Blend until smooth.
Lemon Herb Chicken Marinade
For those who prefer lighter fare, the Lemon Herb Chicken Marinade offers a fresh and zesty taste. Lemon juice, olive oil, and a blend of herbs such as thyme and oregano bring a Mediterranean flair to your dish. It even pairs wonderfully with fish and vegetables, giving a bright note to your grilling.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup olive or vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh or 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
In shallow glass dish or resealable food-storage plastic bag, mix all ingredients. Add about 1 lb meat; cover dish or seal bag, and refrigerate at least 20 minutes but no longer than 24 hours, depending on type of meat.
Remove the chicken or meat from the marinade; discard remaining chicken marinade. Cook meat as desired.
Spicy Mango Rub
If you like a little heat with a hint of sweetness, this Spicy Mango Rub is your go-to. The combination of dried mango powder, chili flakes, and cumin adds a tropical twist to your meats. This rub is particularly great on shrimp or grilled chicken, providing a bold flavor that’s sure to please those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried mango powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon granulated onion
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. To use, spread mixed dry rub in a rimmed baking sheet or a large bowl, whichever fits the meat you are using best. Add meat and generously rub it all over with the dry rub, massaging it into the meat.
Garlic and Rosemary Rub
Garlic and rosemary come together in this rub to create an aromatic and earthy flavor profile. Perfect for a grilled steak, lamb, beef, or chicken, this rub’s simple yet powerful ingredients penetrate the meat, leaving a memorable taste with every bite. This is also a perfect blend to use on potatoes! Fresh garlic and rosemary are best, but dried versions can also be used effectively.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 8 cloves garlic, diced
- ⅓ cup olive oil
Mix black pepper, kosher salt, fresh rosemary, dried rosemary, and garlic in a small bowl.
Gradually stir enough olive oil into spice mixture to form a thick paste. Rub into desired meats before grilling.
Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
This is the perfect chicken marinade to sweeten your camping grill and chill. Our teriyaki will transport your taste buds to Japan using a combination of sweet and savoury umami flavors. Soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of honey or brown sugar meld together to create a glossy coating that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. It’s ideal for chicken or salmon, offering a sticky glaze that’s irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 (1 inch) piece fresh ginger, grated
- ¼ cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Stir together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, sesame seeds, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
Whisk together water and cornstarch in a small bowl; add to soy sauce mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer sauce, stirring frequently, until thickened, 5 to 7 minutes.
Cajun Spice Rub
Bring the vibrant flavors of Louisiana to your RV with the Cajun Spice Rub. A lively mixture of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper gives this rub a well-rounded and fiery personality. It’s fantastic on fish, chicken, or steak, adding a southern kick to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 ½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 ¼ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 ¼ teaspoons dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Blend all spices together. Can be stored in an airtight container for up to three months.
Pineapple Ginger Chicken Marinade
The Pineapple Ginger Chicken Marinade is a sweet and tangy concoction that makes your grilled dishes pop with flavor. Pineapple juice, grated ginger, and a hint of soy sauce create a tropical harmony that tenderizes and infuses meat with island-inspired goodness. Try it on pork or chicken for a refreshing and juicy result.
Ingredients
- 1c pineapple juice
- 1/4c white vinegar
- 1c soy sauce
- 1-2 tsp ginger
- 1/4c fresh cilantro or 2tsp dried coriander
- 1c pineapple chunks
- 1/2c water
Blend the ingredients until well mixed. Marinade the meat for 3 hours up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Discard all marinade before grilling/broiling/frying.
Tips for a Perfect Grilled Meal
These seven marinades and rubs offer a world of flavor for any grill chef who’s out adventuring in an RV. They will absolutely enhance the taste and texture of your meals. Whichever recipe you choose will also add an element of excitement to the cooking process. Remember to allow enough time for the marinades and rubs to work their magic. Always grill at the appropriate temperature to ensure your food is cooked to perfection. With these tips and recipes, you’re now equipped to turn your RV into a mobile gourmet kitchen, serving up mouthwatering dishes wherever the journey takes you.
Conclusion
Your experiences, your recipes, and your stories can inspire a whole convoy of fellow road trippers. If you’ve got a favourite chicken marinade or rub that would be perfect for campsite BBQs, help us all make some memorable camping experiences. Share these tasty tidbits of culinary wisdom with the community. Drop a comment, post a picture, or even swap recipes. By doing so, not only do you enrich the pool of collective knowledge, but you may also find your next favourite grilled treat!
In essence, the journey to creating quick and easy meals for RV road trips is as rewarding as it is essential. Outdoor cooking is a blend of culinary creativity and health-conscious decision-making. It is also a community activity that makes for happy camping. Our community sharing food recipes enhances the entire experience of travel. With that said, pack your pantry with confidence, hit the road with gusto, and remember that the perfect grilled meal is out there, waiting to be shared.
