Culinary techniques are the methods and skills used to transform raw ingredients into delicious and safe dishes. Here are some common culinary techniques:

1. Preparation techniques:

  • Washing: Removing dirt and microorganisms from the surface of food.
  • Peeling and chopping: Shaping and sizing ingredients appropriately for the dish.
  • Marinating: Soaking food in a seasoned liquid to enhance flavor and tenderize.
  • Breading: Coating food with a layer of breadcrumbs or batter before frying.

2. Heat-based techniques:

  • Boiling: Cooking food in boiling water.
    • Blanching: Briefly immersing food in boiling water.
    • Stewing: Simmering food in liquid for an extended period.
  • Steaming: Cooking food with steam.
  • Frying: Cooking food in hot oil or fat.
    • Deep-frying: Submerging food completely in hot oil.
    • Shallow-frying: Using a small amount of oil and often stirring or tossing.
    • Pan-frying: Cooking in a moderate amount of fat, achieving a golden crust.
  • Sautéing: Quickly cooking food in a pan over high heat.
  • Roasting: Cooking food in an oven, over coals, or on a grill with dry heat.
  • Toasting: Browning food in a dry pan over heat.
  • Braising: Simmering food in a small amount of liquid (often with soy sauce and sugar) until tender.

3. Combination techniques:

Many dishes are prepared by combining different techniques. For example:

  • Caramelized fish in clay pot (Cá kho tộ): Braising combined with initial frying.
  • Grilled meat: Marinating followed by grilling.
  • Boiled chicken: Boiling combined with chilling in cold water to make the skin crispy.

4. Cold preparation techniques:

  • Mixing: Combining ingredients together (e.g., salad).
  • Soaking: Immersing food in water, sauce, or a spice mixture.
  • Freezing: Using low temperatures to preserve food.

5. Modern techniques:

  • Microwaving: Quickly cooking or reheating food.
  • Sous vide cooking: Vacuum-sealing food and cooking it in a temperature-controlled water bath.
  • Air frying: Cooking food using circulating hot air.

To master culinary techniques, you need to:

  • Understand the characteristics of each ingredient: Different ingredients require specific cooking methods to achieve the best flavor and texture.
  • Practice regularly: Practice helps you master techniques, control heat, and seasoning.
  • Observe and learn: Learn from books, videos, and experienced cooks.
  • Be creative: Apply basic techniques to create new dishes.