Knowing a few simple cooking methods can help with healthy eating. And trying the methods for yourself at home can help you discover more foods that you may really like. Did you know that changing the cooking method can give food a completely different flavor and texture? Use these tips for cooking basics and to find your favorite way to cook.
Sautéing may sound fancy, but it just means you use a hot pan and oil to cook food quickly.
Roasting browns the surface of food with the high heat of an oven.
Steaming cooks food over a pan of boiling water. The food doesn't touch the water. Instead, it's cooked by the steam coming off the hot water. Serve steamed vegetables as is, or add seasonings after cooking. You can't go wrong with chopped fresh herbs, olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice for veggies and a dusting of cinnamon for fruits.
Overcooking changes the color and texture of your food—and not in a good way. Broccoli turns a dull green, and rice can turn to mush. Try these tips to avoid overcooking.
You can also serve many vegetables and fruits raw. You can chop and serve, or bite right in. Try it with carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, radishes, and turnips. Or try apples, bananas, oranges, mangoes, pears, and strawberries. You can also try changing up your chop. Try slicing carrots and cucumbers into spears, bell peppers into rings, and oranges into half circles.
Current as of: September 8, 2021
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Lesley Ryan MD - Family Medicine
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