How to Make Coca Cola Marinade

Reviewed by Ashley Crawford

Last Updated: June 29, 2023 References

Have you ever wondered how many things Coca-Cola can be used for? Aside from drinking for enjoyment, you can clean toilets with cola as well as using it as a meat marinade. The soda acts as a meat tenderizer and is a great cheap marinade substitute for any meat, such as chicken, steak, or beef. Here is how to make a Coca-Cola marinade.

Ingredients

Method 1 (makes 2 quarts)
1 quart (950 ml) Coca-Cola
2 cups (475 ml) oil
2 cups (475 ml) vinegar
3 cloves garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Method 2 (for about 2 pounds meat)
12 ounces (355 ml) Coca-Cola
1 cup (340g) honey
1 bunch green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons (30 ml) soy sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
Method 3 (6 servings)
12 ounces (355 ml) Coca-Cola
1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground onion powder
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger root
2 large fresh garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 pinch dried basil flakes

Steps

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Use immediately over the steak pieces and be sure to coat thoroughly.

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Community Q&A

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Question

Do I cook the steak in the Coca-Cola marinade?

Community Answer

You can, but it will further caramelize. I would not recommend it unless you want a syrupy sauce with your meat.

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Question

Will this work with diet cola?

Community Answer

Yes, I have tried it with Diet Coke and it tastes just as good (with fewer calories).

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Question

Will Coke tenderize a pork loin?

Community Answer

Yes, cola tenderizes the meat due to the acids and will also make it flavorful if it sits overnight or for 8 hours.

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