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How to select and use a marinade injector for BBQ

Be sure to download a copy of our FAB Cookbook, which has our favorite BBQ methods, hints and tips for using FAB.

When selecting a needle and injector combination, the most important factor is the needle. You want a needle that pushes the marinade or brine outward, into the muscle. You don't just want to punch a hole and fill it with liquid.

Here (and to the left) is a link to a BBQ injector available through Amazon that we like. The 4oz capacity is good for ribs and chicken, but there are other models with larger capacity, 8oz or more if you search around.

When injecting, be patient. You need to inject the mix slowly and evenly. Your goal is to push the marinade into the muscle fibers of the meat. Some people stab wildly with their injectors, thinking that more and faster is better. Don't do this! Let the meat absorb the mixture, and use a firm, even pressure.

While injectors can come in plastic, stainless steel and sundry other materials, the needles are generally stainless steel. Below are the three main types of injector needles you'll find.

The needle labeled A is the type you want. It has holes around the circumference of the needle, so it injects in all directions.

The needles labeled B and C are no good for BBQ—leave them for the turkeys!