The word "braises" is spelled with a silent "s" at the end, which can make it confusing for non-native speakers. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /breɪzɪz/, which reflects the pronunciation of the middle sound "ai" and the plural "s" ending. Despite the spelling, "braises" is pronounced the same way as "braise," which is a cooking technique that involves slow-cooking meat in liquid. So, when you see the word "braises" on a recipe, remember to ignore the silent "s" and focus on the cooking method instead.
Braises are a cooking technique and method of preparing food that involves the slow cooking of ingredients in a covered pot or pan with liquid. It is a moist-heat cooking method that helps in breaking down the tough fibers in meat, resulting in flavorful and tender dishes.
To braise, the main ingredient, often meat or vegetables, is first seared in a hot pan to develop a rich, brown crust. Then, the ingredient is transferred to a pot or pan with a tight-fitting lid, where it is gently cooked for an extended period in a relatively low oven temperature or on the stovetop. The cooking liquid in a braise can include broths, wines, stocks, or even water, which helps to impart additional flavors and keep the dish moist.
Braises are typically characterized by a long cooking time, ranging from 1 to 4 hours or more, which allows the flavors to meld and intensify. This slow cooking process also results in the breakdown of connective tissues in tougher cuts of meat, transforming them into luscious and tender bites. Vegetables cooked this way absorb the flavors of the cooking liquid and become soft and delectable.
Braising is a versatile cooking method used for a wide variety of dishes, such as pot roasts, stews, braised chicken, lamb shanks, short ribs, and even certain seafood options. It is a popular technique in many cuisines worldwide, including French, Italian, Chinese, and Latin American, due to its ability to create complex and deeply flavored dishes using relatively inexpensive ingredients.
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The word "braise" has its etymology rooted in the French language. It is derived from the Old French word "bresle", which referred to hot charcoal or embers. The term later evolved into "braiser" in modern French, meaning "to cook with hot embers". From there, it was adopted into English as "braise" in the early 18th century, retaining its culinary meaning of slow-cooking food in a closed container with a small amount of liquid.