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What are the Basic Methods of French Cooking?

By Rebecca Franklin, About.com

Question: What are the Basic Methods of French Cooking?

Answer:

French chefs use numerous intricate cooking methods, but there are a few techniques at the heart of every French kitchen.

Flambéing is a somewhat dangerous technique used to add flavor to food at the end of cooking.

Sautéing is a low-fat method of range-top cooking.

Poaching is a gentle way to simmer food and bring out a tender texture.

Broiling and grilling are nearly identical because they both cook an oiled piece of food over direct, moderately high heat.

Braising uses a small amount of flavorful liquid to cook food.

Baking is a dry heat method using an oven to slowly cook food.

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