Does BBQ meat that is marinated need salt before or after cooking?

This is a great question! It depends on a few factors:

1. The Marinades:

* Salt-Heavy Marinades: If your marinade already has a good amount of salt, you probably don't need to add more before or after cooking.

* Salt-Free Marinades: If your marinade is salt-free (or very low salt), you'll want to salt the meat before cooking.

2. Cooking Method:

* Dry-Rub: If you're using a dry rub, you'll generally want to salt the meat before you apply the rub.

* Wet Brine: A wet brine (salt dissolved in water) is often used in combination with marinades, and you'd generally salt the meat before the brine.

3. Taste Preference:

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your taste preference. Some people like to salt generously before cooking, while others prefer to taste the meat and adjust salt levels after it's cooked.

Here's a general guideline:

* Salt the meat before marinating: This allows the salt to penetrate the meat and help tenderize it.

* Salt the meat after marinating: If you have a salt-heavy marinade, adding more salt may be too much.

Important Note: It's always best to err on the side of less salt, as you can always add more after the meat is cooked. Over-salting can make the meat tough and dry.

Experiment and enjoy! Don't be afraid to try different methods and find what works best for you.