The combined effect of asparagus juice and balsamic vinegar on the tenderness, physicochemical and structural attributes of beefsteak.

The adverse effects of chemical compounds have limited their usage despite their relative success in improving meat tenderness. Thus, natural tenderizers have attracted attention. The present study aimed to evaluate the tenderization effects of asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) juice and balsamic vinegar on beefsteak; marination at 4 °C for 48 h significantly increased the water-holding capacity, total protein solubility, myofibrillar fragmentation index and hydroxyproline content but significantly decreased the pH value, Warner-Bratzler shear force, and energy to the peak rates (P < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy images and electrophoresis findings revealed extensive degradation of connective tissues and changes in protein band patterns, respectively. The tenderness of the beefsteak samples was optimum by applying 25% asparagus juice, and 25% asparagus juice + 10% balsamic vinegar. Therefore, marinade solutions containing asparagus juice and balsamic vinegar can be considered as natural tenderizing agents in formulation of seasonings and sauces to promote tenderness in tough beefsteak and possibly improve other quality-related properties. © Association of Food Scientists & Technologists (India) 2020.