When making this salad, Mr. Brock tosses his beets with some grapefruit bitters to tenderize the rounds.

WSJ: Sean Brock's Beet, Strawberry and Sorrel Salad | Slow Food Fast

As the oats tenderize they'll release their starch and produce a sumptuous gravy that binds the dish together.

WSJ: Sean Brock's Oats Risotto With Peas and Pecorino | Slow Food Fast

He'll leave a gamey piece of goat in this brew for about five days, allowing natural enzymatic action to tenderize the meat, while the marinade keeps bad bacteria at bay.

WSJ: Get Your Goat On

Sprinklings of salt and lemon juice tenderize it slightly.

WSJ: Eric Ripert's Artichoke, Fennel and Arugula Salad