Introduction Cooking techniques are essential in culinary arts. They determine flavor, texture, and presentation. Main categories: dry heat, moist heat, and combination methods.
Dry Heat Methods - Grilling: Cooking over direct heat - Roasting: Cooking in the oven with dry heat - Baking: Cooking breads, pastries, casseroles in oven - Broiling: High heat from above - Sautéing: Quick cooking in small amount of fat - Deep Frying: Submerging food in hot oil
Moist Heat Methods - Boiling: Cooking in boiling water (100°C) - Simmering: Gentle cooking below boiling point - Poaching: Cooking in liquid at low temperature - Steaming: Cooking with steam without direct contact with water - Blanching: Brief boiling followed by cold water immersion
Combination Methods - Braising: First seared, then slow-cooked in liquid - Stewing: Cooking small pieces of food in liquid for long time
Modern Techniques - Sous Vide: Cooking food sealed in bags at precise temperatures - Stir-Frying: High heat cooking with constant stirring - Smoking: Flavoring and cooking food with smoke
Conclusion - Each cooking technique affects flavor and nutrition - Chefs must master various techniques - The right method enhances dining experience