Which cooking method uses steam or liquid as part of the cooking process?

• A. Dry heat cooking
• B. Pan-frying
• C. Moist heat cooking
• D. Roasting

Answer: (C)

Moist heat cooking uses steam or liquid as part of the cooking process. In this approach heat is transferred to food through water or steam, which allows gentle, even heating and helps tenderize foods by breaking down connective tissue and softening starches. Common techniques include boiling, steaming, simmering, poaching, braising, and pressure cooking. For example, braising starts with browning the food and then cooking it slowly in a small amount of liquid, while stewing keeps ingredients fully submerged in liquid. This contrasts with dry heat cooking, where heat moves primarily through air or fat without involving liquid, as in roasting, baking, grilling, or pan-frying, which promotes browning and crisp textures.