The term "shaking bake" refers to a type of seasoning and coating product for meats, typically chicken. The spelling of the word is based on the pronunciation of the two words that form it. "Shaking" is spelled /ˈʃeɪkɪŋ/, with the "sh" sound at the beginning and stress on the first syllable. "Bake" is spelled /beɪk/, with the long "a" sound and stress on the second syllable. When combined, the two words create a compound word that is spelled "shaking bake."
Shake and Bake is a colloquial term that can refer to different things depending on the context. Primarily, it is used as a trademark name for a brand of seasoned coating mix used for baking chicken, fish, or pork chops. The Shake and Bake mix typically combines a blend of spices, herbs, breadcrumbs, and other ingredients to create a crispy and flavorful coating when applied to meat and then baked in an oven.
However, Shake and Bake can also be used informally in a broader sense to describe a method or process of quickly and effortlessly accomplishing a task or achieving a desired outcome. This colloquial usage is often associated with a rapid and efficient approach that requires minimal effort or expertise. It may be used humorously to suggest an easy or simplistic solution to a problem.
In certain informal contexts, Shake and Bake can also refer to a dance move that involves vigorous shaking of the body and quick, jerky movements. This interpretation is mainly associated with various dance styles, especially those involving hip-hop or urban music.
In summary, Shake and Bake primarily refers to a brand of seasoned coating mix for baked meats. However, it can also be used informally to define an effortless, quick, or simplified method of accomplishing a task or achieving an outcome, as well as a dance move characterized by vigorous shaking and jerky movements.
The term "shake and bake" is actually a colloquial phrase used in American English, particularly in the southern states. It originated in the 1970s and is associated with a cooking technique used for chicken, often referred to as "shake and bake chicken".
The etymology of "shake and bake" comes from the process involved in cooking the chicken. Instead of traditional breading, which requires drenching the meat in a wet mixture followed by coating it with dry breadcrumbs, "shake and bake" involves placing the chicken in a plastic bag along with a packet of pre-packaged seasoning and breadcrumbs. The bag is then shaken to coat the chicken evenly with the mixture. Finally, the coated chicken is baked in the oven.