Thermal cooking

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Thermal cooking is a long-standing method of cooking that utilizes retained heat. In this process, food is brought to a boil, simmered for a few minutes, and then put into an insulated box to continue cooking. The method is similar to the principle behind the haybox and the fireless cooker, which were developed to save fuel during the early 20th century.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "thermal cooking" is derived from the Greek word "therme," which means heat. This method of cooking is named for its use of retained heat to cook food.

History[edit | edit source]

Thermal cooking has been used for centuries in various cultures. The haybox, an early form of thermal cooker, was used in Europe and North America during the early 20th century to save fuel. The fireless cooker was another early form of thermal cooker that was popular during the same period.

Method[edit | edit source]

In thermal cooking, food is first brought to a boil on a stove, then simmered for a few minutes. The pot is then taken off the stove and placed into an insulated box. The insulation of the box traps the heat, allowing the food to continue cooking without additional heat. This method is energy efficient, as it requires less fuel than traditional cooking methods.

Advantages and Disadvantages[edit | edit source]

Thermal cooking has several advantages. It is energy efficient, as it requires less fuel than traditional cooking methods. It also allows for slow cooking, which can enhance the flavor of the food. However, thermal cooking also has some disadvantages. It requires planning ahead, as the food needs time to cook in the insulated box. Additionally, it can be difficult to control the cooking temperature, which can result in undercooked or overcooked food.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

  • Haybox: An early form of thermal cooker that was used in Europe and North America during the early 20th century.
  • Fireless cooker: Another early form of thermal cooker that was popular during the same period.
Thermal cooking Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD