What does it mean to preserve food using brine or vinegar?

Preserving food using brine or vinegar refers to the process of pickling. Pickling involves immersing food items in a solution of salt (brine), vinegar, or other acidic substances, which helps to inhibit the growth of spoilage organisms and enhances flavor. This method is commonly used for fruits and vegetables, providing a tangy taste while also extending their shelf life.

In contrast, curing typically involves using salt or sugar to preserve meat or fish, while fermenting is a process that relies on beneficial bacteria or yeasts to transform food, often enhancing its nutritional value and flavor. Marinating usually refers to soaking food in a seasoned, acidic liquid for a short period before cooking to enhance flavor, rather than for preservation purposes. Therefore, pickled is the accurate descriptor for food preserved with brine or vinegar.