Why do you heat oil before adding other ingredients like garlic or onions?

You heat oil before adding ingredients like garlic and onions for several reasons:

* Flavor Development: Heating oil allows it to reach a higher temperature, which in turn helps to extract more flavor from the ingredients. This is especially important for aromatic ingredients like garlic and onions, which release their flavorful compounds when heated.

* Sautéing: Heating oil creates a conducive environment for sautéing, which is a quick cooking method where food is cooked in a small amount of hot oil. This technique allows for browning and caramelization, which add depth of flavor and color to the dish.

* Preventing Sticking: A hot oil bath helps prevent ingredients like garlic and onions from sticking to the pan. This is especially important for delicate ingredients that can easily burn or break down if they stick.

* Faster Cooking: Hot oil allows for faster and more efficient cooking. This is important for ingredients like garlic and onions, which are typically cooked for a short period of time.

* Consistency: Using hot oil helps to ensure that ingredients are cooked evenly and consistently. This is crucial for creating a dish with a desirable texture and appearance.

In summary, heating oil before adding garlic and onions enhances flavor, promotes efficient cooking, prevents sticking, and ensures consistency in your dish.