Steam cooking is for tender foods. Steaming is using boiling water to steam food by cooking it slowly. Basically boil water in any pot or pan with a tight fitting lid. The food is placed in a steaming container or tray over water and cooked by the steam. Steaming is usually done using a steaming pot, but can be put into a saucepan with a lid using a steaming tray or a pan using a bowl. Foods that can be steamed include fish or vegetables. Steaming allows food to retain its flavor.
Stew is a low-water, slow-cooking method of cooking. It’s a great way to cook cheaper, tougher meats for a longer period of time, making them easier to eat and more flavorful. The stew can be made in a pot or pan with a lid so that the heat and steam stay inside, making the meat more tender. It has the advantage of being cooked slowly and without constant care.
Boiling foods, like steamed foods, are for tender foods. Vegetables should be cooked by putting them in boiling water so they cook quickly and retain their flavor and minerals. Meats should be put in cold water and brought to a boil. Once the water boils, the temperature should be lowered until it simmers, which is when the water is just bubbling with a little steam. A saucepan is ideal for boiling food.
The asado is to cook in the oven on a low heat and add a little fat to prevent burning and add flavor. Roasting is usually done with meats in the oven with a dutch oven. Grilling is a great way to cook meats and vegetables together and lock in flavor.
Grilling is a method of cooking over an open flame using charcoal or gas. It’s great on meats and vegetables as it locks in the flavor and actually cooks the fats in the meats. A grill pan is best for this cooking method.
Baking is best for cakes, breads, pastries, and casseroles. Baking takes place in the oven in baking dishes, casseroles, cake pans, and cookie cutters. Be sure to cook the food completely without burning the outside. It is useful to have an oven that is capable of maintaining a constant heat at all times.
Frying is one of the most popular cooking methods. It is made on the stovetop in a frying pan, frying pan, or wok. using varying amounts of oil, fats or grease. Different types of frying include dry frying where no fats, fats or oils are used in the heat and the food is cooked over low heat until golden brown. Shallow frying is done with enough fat or oil to cover the pan to prevent food from sticking. It is usually used for eggs, pancakes, and vegetables. Frying is the other method of frying. This method requires that the food be cooked in at least 2 inches of heated fat, oil, or fat. It is used to fry chicken, potatoes and many other foods.
Cooking is fun when you use the right method and the right pot and/or pan. Enjoy creating tasty, healthy and well-prepared meals.