Coke And Soy Sauce: Why This Combo Works And What To Use It For - Tasting Table

"Soda works well as a meat marinade thanks to the phosphoric acid found in the beverage, which breaks down the protein's connective tissues until it's deliciously tender. The umami-rich, salty soy sauce almost works as a brine, pulling out moisture from within the surface to produce a juicy piece of meat. The incredible texture both ingredients bring to meat is what makes them great marinade components, but the combined notes are the real draw."

"Since the sweet and savory duo works to tenderize food, you can use it on poultry, beef, or pork. With the help of other ingredients, the two can create the perfect juicy bite. Add minced ginger and garlic, shallots, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the soy sauce and Coke mixture to imbue chicken with flavor before roasting it. The mix also works when creating a glaze, as well. Both soy sauce and Coca-Cola can take your chicken wings up a notch when reduced into a thick sauce. After searing the wings, add it to a pan with Coke, soy sauce, and other flavorings and let simmer until the sticky sweet mixture coats the wings."

Phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola breaks down protein connective tissues, producing tender meat. Soy sauce acts like a brine, drawing moisture to create juiciness while adding umami, salt, and earthy flavors. Coca-Cola contributes spiced-sweet notes from citrus oils, nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon. Use about half a cup of soy sauce per can of Coke and add oil, garlic, pepper, and shallots; marinate at least an hour. The mixture suits poultry, beef, and pork. The blend can be reduced into a glaze for wings or combined with ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for roasted chicken.

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