Lemongrass Marinade Recipe
Introduction
This vibrant Lemongrass Marinade brings a fresh and zesty flavor to your favorite proteins. Easy to prepare and packed with aromatic notes, it’s perfect for grilling, roasting, or stir-frying.

Ingredients
- Lemongrass (2 stalks, finely chopped)
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Oil (2 tablespoons, vegetable or olive oil)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the lemongrass, soy sauce, garlic, and oil in a blender or food processor.
- Step 2: Blend until smooth, then use the marinade to coat your choice of protein. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Tips & Variations
- For added depth, include a teaspoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the acidity.
- Substitute vegetable oil with sesame oil for a nutty flavor twist.
- Use fresh lemongrass if possible, but dried or frozen can work in a pinch.
Storage
Store any leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw protein unless boiled first to ensure food safety.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use this marinade for vegetables?
Yes, this lemongrass marinade works well with vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini. Marinate for 15-20 minutes before cooking to add flavor.
How long should I marinate meat for best results?
For most proteins, marinating for 30 minutes to 2 hours is ideal. Longer marinating can enhance flavor but may start to change the texture of delicate proteins like fish.
PrintLemongrass Marinade Recipe
This vibrant lemongrass marinade combines fresh lemongrass, soy sauce, garlic, and oil to create a flavorful base perfect for marinating a variety of proteins. The marinade infuses dishes with a zesty, aromatic profile, ideal for grilling, baking, or pan-frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (marinade preparation only)
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: Enough marinade for 1 pound (450g) of protein
- Category: Marinade
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or any neutral oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemongrass: Trim and finely chop the lemongrass stalks, ensuring to use the tender inner parts for the best flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the chopped lemongrass, soy sauce, minced garlic, and oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined, forming the marinade.
- Marinate Protein: Pour the marinade over your choice of protein (such as chicken, beef, pork, or tofu) in a bowl or resealable bag. Ensure the protein is fully coated, then cover and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Notes
- For a spicier marinade, consider adding fresh chili or chili flakes.
- Use fresh lemongrass for the best aroma; dried lemongrass may result in a less vibrant flavor.
- This marinade is suitable for grilling, baking, or pan-frying your protein after marination.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to control the saltiness of the marinade.
Keywords: lemongrass marinade, soy sauce marinade, garlic marinade, Southeast Asian marinade, meat marinade, tofu marinade

