An ancient technique, confit refers to cooking a protein in fat, generally its own. The thick layer of fat then preserves the protein for a period of time. Thankfully, we live in modern times and have access to luxuries our ancestors probably never imagined (e.g., refrigerators). The term confit can also be applied to preparations of fruits and vegetables, although the method is not necessarily used for the purpose of long-term preservation. The technique is adapted and fat is used to transform foods into something completely different and delicious.