What is the difference between cooking and baking what are origins of those words?

Cooking vs. Baking: A Tale of Two Heats

Cooking and baking are both methods of preparing food using heat, but they differ significantly in their techniques and outcomes.

Cooking generally refers to any method of preparing food with moist heat, where water or steam is involved. This can include:

* Boiling: Submerging food in boiling water.

* Steaming: Cooking food with steam.

* Simmering: Cooking food in liquid just below boiling point.

* Braising: Cooking food in liquid over low heat, often in a covered pot.

* Poaching: Cooking food gently in a liquid just below simmering.

Baking refers to the method of cooking food using dry heat, typically in an oven. This usually involves:

* Baking: Cooking food in a hot oven, often using a dry heat source like an oven.

* Roasting: Cooking larger pieces of food in an oven, often at a higher temperature.

* Grilling: Cooking food over direct heat, often on a grill.

Origins of the words:

Cooking comes from the Old French word "cuire," meaning "to cook." The word has been used in English since the 13th century.

Baking comes from the Old English word "bæcan," meaning "to bake." The word has been used in English since the 10th century.

Key Differences:

* Heat source: Cooking uses moist heat, while baking uses dry heat.

* Temperature: Cooking typically involves lower temperatures than baking.

* Methods: Cooking uses various techniques like boiling, steaming, or braising, while baking primarily uses ovens.

* Results: Cooking produces softer, more tender food, while baking often results in a crispy, browned surface.

In essence, cooking involves using liquid to transfer heat, while baking relies on direct heat from an oven. Both techniques offer a variety of flavors and textures, making them essential parts of any cuisine.