What is the primary purpose of marinating meat?

The primary purpose of marinating meat is to enhance flavor and tenderize it. Marinades are typically composed of acidic ingredients, such as vinegar, citrus juices, or yogurt, which help break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender. Additionally, various herbs, spices, and oils are often included in marinades to infuse the meat with rich flavors. This process not only adds depth to the taste of the meat but also improves its texture, making the final dish more enjoyable.

While thickening sauces, reducing cooking time, and adding color can be important aspects of cooking, they are not the main focus of marinating. Thickening sauces generally involves the use of flour, cornstarch, or other thickening agents, while reducing cooking time usually relates to cooking methods or the size of the meat cut. Adding color might be the result of cooking techniques or seasoning but is not a central purpose of marinating. Hence, the marinating process centers primarily on enhancing flavor and tenderness.