by Deborah Cummings

Created on: January 11, 2009   Last Updated: January 28, 2009

Double boilers are very functional when the dish being prepared requires cooking without exposing it to direct heat. The double boiler consists of two pots - a larger pot that will set on the heat source with a smaller one that sets atop the large one.

Water is placed in the bottom pot, usually only an inch or so for heating whatever type of food you are preparing. The item being prepared is put in the top pot. Do not let the bottom of the top pot touch the water. If so, this will defeat the purpose of using the double boiler.

Keep in mind the water should not be boiling because this will create steam which is not the method with which you want to cook. If your water should happen to start boiling, remove the top pot from the bottom one, turn the heat down and wait for the water to return to simmer before replacing the top pot. Likewise if the water becomes too cool, remove the top pot and reheat the water, then replace the top pot and finish your dish.

Using this method for cooking keeps foods from burning because they are not exposed to direct heat. Heating your food slowly allows it to heat evenly as well. This is very important when preparing certain types of dishes.

Delicate foods can lose their properties when overcooked. Using a double boiler is the best option to help keep these foods from breaking down and losing the properties that are desired.

If sauces are not evenly heated, they may be lumpy. Custards are another item made in double boilers. Eggs are better when cooked using this method. The melting of chocolate in a double boiler can be accomplished without compromising the consistency of the chocolate. Many chefs use this method of preparing dishes in order to get the full flavor of the dish they are preparing without the risk of scorching.

One of the many items a double boiler can do is melting chocolate for a sauce or a special dessert. Allow the water in the bottom pot to get hot but not boiling. Place the desired starting amount of chocolate in the top pot and place it on the lower one. Stir the chocolate until it is melted and if more is needed it can be added now for melting.

Double boiler soup can be made by using the following ingredients:

1. Chicken broth - approximately 6 cups

2. 3 eggs

3. Breadcrumbs

4. Parmesan cheese

5. Salt and pepper

Mix the eggs and half of the cheese together. Put the chicken broth in the top of the double boiler after it has been readied. When heated, pour in the breadcrumbs while stirring for approximately 2 or 3 minutes. Remove the bottom of the double boiler from the heat and add the eggs and cheese you mixed earlier while beating. Beat until the mixture is well blended and serve. The remaining cheese is served to the side for adding as desired.

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