What does it mean to simmer in cooking Meaning and Definition
What does it mean to simmer in cooking
Pronunciation
/ˈsɪmərɪn/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To cook in liquid over low heat, usually between 140°F and 180°F (60°C to 82°C), often used for soups, stews, and sauces to cook slowly and gently.
Etymology
The word “simmer” originated from the Old French word “simber”, meaning “to boil” or “to seethe”, which is derived from the Latin word “similis”, meaning “like” or “similar”.
Usage Notes
Simmering is often used in cooking to break down tough connective tissue in meat and vegetables, making them tender and flavorful. It can also help to reduce the risk of overcooking and preserve the nutritional value of the ingredients.
Cultural References
Simmering has been featured in various cookbooks, cooking shows, and recipes. It is often used as a technique for cooking comfort foods, such as stews and soups.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
To simmer down: to calm down or become less aggressive; to simmer with anger: to be very angry, but trying not to show it.
Related Words or Phrases
- Boil
- Steam
- Slow cook
Collocations
- Simmering soup
- Simmering stew
- Simmering sauce
Frequency of Use
Simmering is a common cooking technique, and its frequency of use is moderate to high in various cuisines, especially in traditional and slow-cooking recipes.
Common Misspellings
- Simmer
- Simmmer
- Semmer