What does acid do to meat?

[Sam-TX]

Acid as in: vinegar, lemon juice, orange juice, etc.

South America does Ceviche with seafood very well. Acid is a great preservative, i.e. chimichurri...
I like to marinate chicken with lemon (among other things obviously), but I'd like to know what the acid does to meat in general. Not necessarily chemically, but I'll take it.

What does acid do to meat?

 

[Steve Hoch]

I always thought that it tenderized the meat. I occasionally marinate chicken breasts or other parts in Italian dressing and it seems to work as well as adding flavor.

 

[Timothy F. Lewis]

It digests it. But, that’s an extreme case. Short answer, Acids break down the fiber.

 

[Ed P]

@Brett-EDH has discussed the role of acids in several threads, and has recommended this book that outlines the roles of salt, fat, acid, and heat in cooking.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1476753830/?tag=tvwb-20

Post in thread 'What seasoning is missing from my smoked pork butt?'

Dec 18, 2022

That's good to hear about his brand.
I just bought his Steak Rub yesterday, to use as part of the seasoning on the Christmas Rib Roast.

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking https://www.amazon.com/dp/1476753830/?tag=tvwb-20

A great book to absorb.

• Brett-EDH

• 

 

[Kevin L (NKY)]

In Korean foods they use Asian Pear, and or apples in the Marrinade to break down the meat fibers, for Bolgoli super tender.