What does baked not fried mean?

The difference between baked and fried food lies in the cooking methods used.

- Baked: Foods are cooked in an oven using hot air or radiant heat. The food item is placed in a baking dish or on a baking sheet and is surrounded by hot air, allowing it to cook evenly. Baked goods are often brushed with oil, butter, or other liquids to add flavor and moisture.

- Fried: Foods are cooked by submerging them in hot oil or fat. This method allows for a crispy outer layer and a tender interior. Deep frying is a specific type of frying where food is completely immersed in hot oil, while pan-frying involves cooking food in a shallow layer of oil in a pan.

Here's a comparison between baked and fried foods:

| Characteristic | Baked | Fried |

|---|---|---|

| Cooking Method | Uses dry heat from an oven | Uses hot oil or fat |

| Browning | Occurs through caramelization and Maillard reactions | Occurs through the Maillard reaction and fat browning |

| Texture | Generally softer and drier | Typically crispy or crunchy on the outside and tender inside |

| Oil Content | Lower oil content | Higher oil content |

| Healthier Option | Generally considered healthier, especially when baked without added fats | Typically considered less healthy due to the higher fat content |

| Applications | Used for a wide range of dishes including pastries, breads, cakes, vegetables, and meats | Commonly used for savory dishes such as French fries, fried chicken, tempura, and donuts |

It's important to note that the healthiness of baked and fried foods can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, cooking techniques, and portion sizes.