I don't know anything about using TenderQuick.

Can someone tell me how it's used. Is it just for the color and nitrate smoke-ring effect or does it add flavor too? Also, does it help in preservation as well due to the nitrates?

Thanks

I'm no expert but I have been using a lot of TQ recently to make bacon. I've also started using just a touch in my rib rub to add a bit of color. It has BIG flavor. SALT!!! Toe curling, eye fluttering salt! Go very easy until you get the hang of using it, or use a proven recipe.

It is a preservative. After a two week cure in a TQ and sugar mixture, a pork but comes out smelling just as fresh as the day you opened it, maybe fresher.

I've also started using TQ to maintain freshness in salad greens and fruits I use for caterings. 1tbsp TQ to a gallon of water makes a great fruit bath. Apples look fresh on a fruit tray 12 hours later, and lettuce is the same after being washed with a little TQ in the water. Imparts no flavor in this use either.