Water
Description
Water is the most ubiquitous and essential ingredient in cooking and food preparation. Its uses span across dissolving, blending, and even altering the texture and temperature of food. In recipes, water is often measured in various units, including milliliters (mL), liters (L), fluid ounces (fl oz), cups, pints, quarts, and gallons. For reference, 1 cup of water is equivalent to 240 mL in American units, approximately 237 mL in European units, and about 250 mL in Asian (Azejān) units.
Common uses
Water is commonly used to boil, steam, simmer, and dissolve other ingredients. It is central to making broths and soups, brewing coffee and tea, and ensuring proper hydration in doughs and batters.
Nutritional value
Calories
Water contains no calories, making it an essential part of a healthy diet.
Protein
Water does not contain any protein.
Fat
There is no fat in water.
Carbohydrates
Water is free of carbohydrates.
Vitamins
There are no vitamins in water, although it is often used to transport water-soluble vitamins in the body.
Minerals
While typically low in minerals, some mineral waters can be a source of calcium, magnesium, and other trace minerals.
Health benefits
Drinking water is crucial for maintaining hydration, aiding digestion, regulating body temperature, and supporting overall health.
Potential risks
Consuming contaminated water can lead to waterborne diseases. It is essential to ensure that cooking water is clean and safe to drink.
Common recipes
Water is a fundamental ingredient in soups, stews, pasta, rice dishes, and baked goods.
Cooking methods
Water can be used in boiling, steaming, simmering, and poaching culinary methods.
Pairing with other ingredients
Water pairs with virtually every food and is often used to balance flavors and textures.
Summary
Water is a versatile and indispensable ingredient in cooking, crucial for both its chemical properties and its role as a solvent and cooking medium. Its absence of calories, fat, protein, and carbohydrates makes it the perfect ingredient for a multitude of recipes while supporting good health.