"Aunt Sharon, how much water do you use to fry French Fries?" my cousin asked my Mom as she was trying to prepare a meal. I was much younger than my cousin, but even I knew you used oil not water to fry things.
We take it for grated that everyone should know the basics when it comes to cooking. I think fear of looking like a fool for not knowing cooking terms, ingredients, and cooking techniques are a few of the reasons some people don't cook.
Over the weekend, I received an email from a new cook asking what some of the cooking terms in my cookbook were. There is no such thing as a silly question. We all have to start somewhere.
Today, my cousin is a fabulous cook, but it all began with an honest question and a genuine desire to learn.
Below, I've made a list of common cooking terms that might be helpful to some who are just getting started in the kitchen.
Cooking Techniques
Sear: To brown quickly over high heat.
Saute': To fry lightly and quickly in a little hot oil or butter while being frequently turned over.
Roast: A dry heat method of cooking meat, poultry, and vegetables in an oven.
Bake: A dry heat method of baking bread, pies, or cake in the oven.
Steam: To cook food over boiling water in a covered pan.
Fry: Pan frying is done in a small amount of oil. Deep frying is the technique of immersing the food you are cooking in hot oil.
Boil: To cook in liquid that is bubbling.
Poach: To gently cook in not quite simmering water or seasoned liquid.
Grill: To cook on a grill or directly over an open flame.
On Friday, I will be posting my Everyone's Favorite Salad recipe with
Poppy Seed Dressing.
