What is the purpose of marinating meats?

Marinating meats serves the primary purpose of enhancing both flavor and tenderness. A marinade is typically composed of a mixture that includes acidic components, such as vinegar or citrus juice, along with various herbs and spices. The acid in the marinade helps to break down the proteins in the meat, which not only results in a more tender texture but also allows the flavors from the marinade to penetrate into the meat, leading to a more flavorful dish once cooked.

While preservation is a consideration in some marinating processes, it is not the primary goal, and traditional marination does not significantly extend the storage life of meat. Additionally, marinating typically does not reduce cooking time, as the main impact is on the meat's flavor profile and texture rather than speed of cooking. Finally, creating a crust while grilling is related more to cooking techniques rather than the purpose of marinating itself, which focuses on preparation prior to cooking rather than the cooking process itself.