What does 'confit' mean in culinary terms?

In culinary terms, 'confit' refers specifically to the method of cooking and preserving food—most commonly meats—in their own fat. This technique originated in France and traditionally involves slowly cooking the food at a low temperature until it becomes tender and infused with flavor. The food is then stored in the fat, which acts as a preservative, keeping it safe for longer periods. The process of confit not only enhances the flavor but also results in a rich texture, making it a beloved technique in many culinary applications.

The other choices describe different culinary methods or techniques but do not align with the definition of 'confit.' Freezing food in liquid nitrogen refers to flash freezing, which is a method used to preserve food quickly by lowering its temperature significantly. Baking food at a low temperature involves dry heat cooking, which differs from the fat-based method of confit. Marinating food in vinegar is a technique related to pickling or flavoring, but it does not relate to the preservation or cooking method that defines confit.