Pickling was among the most popular preserving methods for sailors, both because it was safe and because folks genuinely liked the flavors pickling produces. Basically, pickling preserves food in brine consisting of salt and water (1.5 tablespoons salt to 1 quart water), vinegar and water (1:3 ratio), sugar and water (1 cup salt and sugar per gallon), and additional spices to create distinctive tastes. Some items require only salt for pickling because they have high water contents, kimchi being one example.