BOIL
To cook in a liquid at a temperature of 212 degrees. Visually, bubbles should rise continually. Method: cover the pan and bring the contents to a boil over a high flame. Then turn to the simmer flame (first click on many burners) and continue boiling, covered until done.
BRAISE
To cook meat or poultry by searing in fat, then simmering in a covered pan in small amount of moisture. Method: generally, meats are seasoned and rolled in flour and browned in hot fat. Then add a small amount of liquid and cover the pan. Turn burner valve knob to simmer flame, so food simmers, not boils, until done.
DEEP FAT FRY
To cook in fat deep enough to completely cover the food being cooked. A saucepan or skillet may be used. Method: use a high flame to bring the fat to frying temperature (usually 375 degrees), then lower the flame until it just maintains the desired fat temperature.
HIGH BOIL
This term is used to describe a vigorous, rolling boil which cannot be stirred down. It cooks no faster than a gentle boil but is needed for cooking foods like macaroni or jellies and jams. Method: cover the pan and use a high flame to bring the contents to a boil quickly. Then uncover the pan and turn to a medium flame or enough heat to maintain a high boil. The food is cooked uncovered in this case to prevent boil-overs and/or to permit evaporation.
MELT
To liquify a solid food by heat. Method: heat over “keep warm” flame until liquified. Covering the pan will speed melting.