You have me intrigued ... the only thing that comes to mind would be the old fashioned vinegar mixed with sugar mix as a marinade. However, despite the sugar, to me it still is vinegary. But maybe? the right proportions would solve that?
As for recipe sharers ... my sister has a friend that shares recipes ... but has admitted, that she never gives "the" recipe as she made it. Changes an ingredient or quantities. Or leaves out that magic ingredient that makes the recipe "pop". All so you cannot duplicate ... and she can remain the Queen of her delights! Unbelievable!