Cooking & Kitchen
Marinade Amount Calculator
A good rule is about 120 ml of marinade per 500 g of food — enough to coat everything without drowning it.
This amount is enough to coat the food evenly without leaving it swimming in liquid.
Formula
Marinade (ml) = weight (g) / 500 x 120.
How it works
Marinade works by contact, so turning the food halfway through matters more than extra liquid. A sealed bag uses less marinade than a wide dish.
Do not reuse marinade that touched raw meat unless you boil it first. Acidic marinades also toughen delicate fish if left too long.
Worked example
For example, 1000 g of food needs 1000 ÷ 500 × 120 = 240 ml of marinade.
FAQs
How long should I marinate chicken?
A few hours is plenty for pieces; overnight is fine for larger cuts. Very acidic marinades need less time.
Can I marinate vegetables the same way?
Yes, and they need less time — 30 minutes to an hour is usually enough.
Is more marinade better?
No. Once the surface is coated, extra liquid adds nothing. Turning the food matters more.
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