What Is Tender Quick?
A pre-mixed curing salt containing salt, sugar, sodium nitrite, and sodium nitrate, used for short-term curing of meats and poultry.
What Does Tender Quick Taste Like?
Tender Quick has a salty, slightly sweet, mineral taste with mild, saline aromas.
- Taste
- Salty, Slightly Sweet, Mineral
- Texture
- Fine Granular
- Aroma
- Mild, Saline
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per N/A (Used as per recipe)Chef’s Secret
Always follow precise measurements specified in curing recipes. Overuse of curing salts can be dangerous due to nitrite toxicity.
Tender Quick Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Tender Quick is Prague Powder #1, used at a 1:1 (with added sugar) ratio. Direct substitute for curing properties, but requires adding sugar.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Prague Powder #1 Best | 1:1 (with added sugar) | Direct substitute for curing properties, but requires adding sugar. |
| Sea Salt (for brining) | Varies by recipe | Only for brining/flavor, lacks curing nitrites/nitrates for preservation. |
| Kosher Salt (for brining) | Varies by recipe | Similar to sea salt, good for non-cured brining applications. |
How to Choose & Store Tender Quick
- Purchase from reputable sources.
- Ensure packaging is sealed.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from food.
What Pairs Well With Tender Quick?
- Pork belly
- bacon
- ham
- corned beef
- jerky.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tender Quick taste like?
Salty, Slightly Sweet, Mineral Mild, Saline
What is a good substitute for Tender Quick?
The best substitute is Prague Powder #1 (1:1 (with added sugar)). Direct substitute for curing properties, but requires adding sugar.
How do you choose and store Tender Quick?
Purchase from reputable sources. Ensure packaging is sealed. Store in a cool, dry place away from food.