A solution of salt, water, and often sugar, sometimes augmented with herbs and spices, employed to enhance the moisture content and flavor profile of deer meat prior to cooking. This technique leverages osmosis to impart seasoning and succulence, resulting in a more palatable and texturally improved final product. For example, soaking venison steaks in a mixture of water, kosher salt, brown sugar, juniper berries, and thyme leaves for several hours exemplifies this method.
Employing such a preparation yields significant advantages in working with typically lean venison. It promotes water retention during cooking, mitigating dryness. Furthermore, it infuses the meat with a balance of savory and sweet notes, offsetting any inherent gaminess. Historically, such processes were crucial for preserving meats; however, modern applications focus primarily on improving the eating experience.