What does "simmer" mean in culinary terms?

What does "simmer" mean in culinary terms?

• A. To cook at a high temperature
• B. To boil vigorously
• C. To cook just below the boiling point where small bubbles form
• D. To let food rest after cooking

Answer: (C)

The term "simmer" in culinary practice refers specifically to cooking just below the boiling point, where small bubbles form and rise to the surface of the liquid. This method allows for gentle cooking, which is particularly important for delicate ingredients that need time to cook through without being subjected to the aggressive agitation of a full boil. Simmering helps to develop flavors without the risk of overcooking or damaging the food being prepared. Using this technique is ideal for soups, stocks, and sauces, where a slower, more controlled heat helps to extract flavors from ingredients while ensuring that they can remain intact rather than breaking apart due to excessive heat. By maintaining a simmer, cooks can also help thicken liquids through evaporation, resulting in richer and more concentrated tastes.

The term "simmer" in culinary practice refers specifically to cooking just below the boiling point, where small bubbles form and rise to the surface of the liquid. This method allows for gentle cooking, which is particularly important for delicate ingredients that need time to cook through without being subjected to the aggressive agitation of a full boil. Simmering helps to develop flavors without the risk of overcooking or damaging the food being prepared.

Using this technique is ideal for soups, stocks, and sauces, where a slower, more controlled heat helps to extract flavors from ingredients while ensuring that they can remain intact rather than breaking apart due to excessive heat. By maintaining a simmer, cooks can also help thicken liquids through evaporation, resulting in richer and more concentrated tastes.