A marinade is a flavorful liquid used to soak food, typically meats, before cooking. It usually contains ingredients like oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices, which help to enhance the taste and tenderness of the food. By allowing the food to absorb these flavors, marinades can transform a simple dish into something delicious and exciting. Marinating is a simple process that can be done in a bowl or a resealable bag. The food is left to sit in the marinade for a period of time, ranging from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the type of food and desired flavor intensity.