It can be difficult to use a marinade without oil or fat since the natural moisture of most meats and vegetables does not allow for appropriate lubrication.
Without the oil, a marinade that is mostly water, such as a blend of garlic and lemon juice, will simply run off the chicken.
Since oils help acid, herbs, and spices adhere to ingredients before and during cooking, they play a crucial role in most marinades.
Taste of Home states that oil is essential for marinating and performs multiple functions. So, in terms of marinades, is it possible to substitute one oil for another?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the oils that you put in your marinades; the decision is entirely up to you.
If you don't have any vegetable oil on hand and need to use it in a marinade, Taste of Home suggests using olive oil instead.
Incorporating olive oil into your marinade is a great way to increase both the quality and depth of the marinade's natural flavors.
According to Arlotta Food Studio, olive oil is also slightly acidic, therefore it tenderizes meat whereas a neutral oil would not.
Olive oil is a worthy and tasty substitute for vegetable oil for preparing marinades, so you may relax while making your next marinade.