Definition
When something is 'cured,' it has been preserved or treated to prevent spoilage or enhance its flavor. Think of cured meats like bacon 🥓 or salami 🍖; they've undergone a process, usually involving salt, smoking, or drying, to extend their shelf life. Curing changes the texture and taste, often making them more intense. It's a way to make food last longer without refrigeration. It's like putting a protective seal on something, preventing it from decaying. It ensures availability over time.