Preparing Food

to grill or barbecue food over direct high heat

The chef charbroiled the burgers to perfection, giving them a delicious smoky flavor.

to heat or cook food rapidly using a microwave oven

In a rush, he decided to nuke a frozen dinner in the microwave for a quick meal.

to make a sudden light sound like a small explosion

The bubble wrap popped loudly as it was squeezed.

a chicken or game bird prepared by splitting it along the back for grilling or roasting, typically fresh

The chef served a spatchcock with herbs and lemon.

to attack or destroy, especially with a sudden force or energy

The superhero used his laser vision to zap the enemy's defenses.

to pour fat, juices, or other liquid over the surface of food, such as meat or vegetables, while it is cooking

I'm basting the turkey with butter every 15 minutes as it roasts in the oven.

to turn pale, especially in response to fear, shock, or surprise

While waiting for the results, she was visibly blanching.

a burn or injury caused by contact with hot liquid or steam

The toddler suffered a scald from spilling boiling water.

to dissolve and loosen cooked food particles from the bottom of a pan by adding liquid, often wine, broth, or stock, during cooking

After searing the steak, the chef used red wine to deglaze the pan, creating a flavorful sauce.

to treat sewage or wastewater with air to encourage the growth of microorganisms that decompose organic matter

The treatment plant aerates sewage to accelerate decomposition.

to coat or cover food, typically with flour or breadcrumbs, before cooking

The chef instructed the kitchen staff to dredge the chicken breasts in seasoned flour before frying.

to form and press dough or wet clay with the hands

The baker had to knead the bread dough to develop its elasticity.

to cook food, especially meat or fish, at a very high temperature

The chef chargrilled the steak to perfection, giving it a delicious smoky flavor.

to partly boil food, especially vegetables

The recipe instructed me to parboil the potatoes before roasting them in the oven.

to quickly fry food in a small amount of hot oil

Saute the onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant.

to cook food, especially meat or fish, under or over direct heat

Broil the salmon fillets in the oven until they are golden and crispy on top.

to become softer or liquid

After weeks of cold weather, the ground began to thaw, revealing patches of green grass beneath the snow.

to cook food at a low temperature with a small amount of liquid in a closed container

Braise the beef in a covered pot with red wine and broth until it's tender.

a boneless steak cut from the tenderloin of beef

He ordered a filet mignon at the steakhouse.