Sweetwater had recently sent us some of their new BBQ Bath brine concentrates to test, promising that they'd make some great BBQ.
So, I asked Mitch to take some brisket, ribs or any carbon-based life form and give the marinade a try. He eagerly accepted.
The company assured us that the marinades are ready-to-use right out of the bottle and prep was easy - cover your BBQ with BBQ Bath and equal parts water -- let soak for 30 minutes - and fire up the grill. I thought this would be perfect for a busy professional couple to use on a weeknight. Here's what they discovered.
Prep Time
The preparation was exactly as described: mix as directed and soak for 30 minutes.
The Thrill of the Grill
After removing the ribs from the Sweetwater Spice marinade, Mitch fired up the grill and cooked the ribs to his (and Jacquelin's) liking.
How'd They Taste?
Jacqueline said the smoked apple flavor really came through - but wasn't overpowering. They liked the slightly sweet, smoky flavor and how the marinade locked in the juices to keep the meat tender. "We did still feel the need to dip the ribs in BBQ sauce as we ate them," Jacqueline added, "but we are sauce people." Note: Sauce is a BIG DEAL on Charlotte's side of the family. These folks would put BBQ sauce (or ketchup) on anything - and usually do.
Other Flavors?
Sweetwater Spice Co. makes fat-free and all-natural BBQ Bath in three flavors: Apple Chipotle, Smoked Habanero and Lime Jalapeno. It also offers the Republic of Texas Ancho & Chipotle Brisket Bath for Texas BBQ brisket.
Shameless Plug
If you're a pet lover (translation: you can't listen to Sarah McLachlan's Angel without tearing up) then click on over to Lost Angels Animal Rescue and make a donation if the spirit moves you. When Jacqueline and Mitch aren't chowing down on Sweetwater Spice BBQ, they're volunteering at this no-kill shelter in Tampa, FL.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
Follow us on Twitter: @BoomerBrief
and @CharlotteBoomer
Know someone battling cancer? Baylor Health Care System's Sammons Says... cancer blog is a great place to go for help. Here, you'll find information, resources, physicians, support groups and just about everything you need to help you navigate your way through this illness.
Senior Forums is a great place to get the news and share views on everything from hobbies and healthcare, to food, family & travel.
Matt Drudge gets the goods and his site ain't bad either.
You don't have to live in Dallas to enjoy D Magazine.
