👉 The cook fluid, often referred to as "cooking oil" or "cooking medium," is a substance used in the culinary process to facilitate cooking, particularly for sautéing, frying, and searing. It serves several critical functions: it helps distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, preventing hot spots that can lead to uneven cooking or burning; it acts as a medium for transferring flavors from ingredients and seasonings, enhancing the overall taste of dishes; and it can also help in retaining moisture in foods, preventing them from becoming dry. Commonly used cook fluids include vegetable oils like canola, olive, and peanut oil, as well as animal fats such as butter and lard. The choice of cook fluid often depends on the desired flavor profile, cooking method, and the type of food being prepared.
