Is it better to cook food in the oven covered or uncovered?

The best way to cook food in the oven depends on the type of food and the desired outcome. Here are some general guidelines:

Covered:

- Meats: Covering meats, such as roasts, poultry, and fish, helps retain moisture and prevents them from drying out. The cover also helps to distribute heat evenly, resulting in more evenly cooked meat.

- Casseroles: Covering casseroles helps to create a moist environment, which is essential for dishes that contain a lot of liquid. The cover also prevents the liquid from evaporating too quickly, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

- Vegetables: Covering vegetables helps to steam them, which preserves their nutrients and prevents them from becoming overcooked. Steaming also helps to retain the vegetables' natural color and flavor.

Uncovered:

- Baked goods: Uncovering baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and breads, allows the steam to escape, resulting in a crispy crust and a fluffy interior.

- Roasted vegetables: Uncovering roasted vegetables allows the moisture to evaporate, resulting in a caramelized exterior and a tender interior.

- Crispy foods: Uncovering foods that you want to be crispy, such as fried chicken or roasted potatoes, allows the air to circulate freely around the food, which helps to create a crispy texture.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on whether the food is covered or uncovered. Always refer to the recipe or cooking instructions for the specific dish you are preparing.