What is the optimum cooking temperature?

There is no single "optimum" cooking temperature. The best temperature depends entirely on what you're cooking!

Here's a breakdown:

General Guidelines:

* Low Heat (200-300°F / 93-149°C): Suitable for slow cooking, simmering sauces, braising, and baking delicate items like cakes.

* Medium Heat (300-350°F / 149-177°C): Ideal for pan-frying, roasting vegetables, and baking most breads and cookies.

* High Heat (350-450°F / 177-232°C): Perfect for searing meat, grilling, and baking items that need a quick and crispy exterior.

* Very High Heat (450°F+ / 232°C+): Used for intense cooking like broiling, deep frying, and baking some pizzas.

Specific Examples:

* Steak: Seared at high heat (450-500°F / 232-260°C) then finished in a lower oven (350°F / 177°C).

* Chicken Breast: Bake at 350°F / 177°C for optimal juiciness.

* Lasagna: Bake at 375°F / 191°C for a bubbly, cheesy result.

* Bread: Bake at 400°F / 204°C for a crisp crust.

Things to Consider:

* Food type: Different ingredients require different temperatures to cook through properly.

* Cooking method: The chosen cooking method dictates the ideal temperature.

* Desired outcome: Do you want a crispy exterior or a tender interior?

* Your oven: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy, so it's best to use an oven thermometer.

Remember, practice and experimentation are key! Don't be afraid to adjust the temperature based on your own preferences and the specific recipe you're using.