Simmer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฒ
simmer
[หsษชmษr ]
Definitions
cooking
To cook something gently just below boiling point, typically in water or broth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| simmer |
When cooking a liquid just below boiling point to allow flavors to develop slowly without evaporating much of the liquid.
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| stew |
When cooking food slowly in liquid over a long period of time, often with meat and vegetables, to create a thick, flavorful dish.
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| boil gently |
Similar to simmering, but slightly more active. Used when you need to cook something at a low, controlled boil.
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| poach |
When cooking food by simmering it in a flavorful liquid, usually at a low temperature. Typically used for delicate foods like eggs, fish, or fruits.
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Examples of usage
- Simmer the soup for 20 minutes before serving.
- The recipe calls for simmering the vegetables until they are tender.
emotions
To be in a state of suppressed anger or excitement.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| simmer |
When there is a slow and steady build-up of emotion, often anger, or when discussing food cooking just below boiling.
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| fume |
When there is visible anger or irritation, often implying a strong and immediate response. This word can carry a negative connotation.
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| seethe |
When there is intense and often suppressed anger or agitation, suggesting an emotional depth that is hard to contain.
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| smolder |
When feelings are intense but kept under control, often indicating a quiet, lingering anger or passion. Also used to describe slow, burning fire without flames.
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Examples of usage
- She simmered with anger as she listened to his lies.
- The tension between the two countries continued to simmer.
temperature
A state or temperature just below boiling point.
Synonyms
gentle boil, low boil, slow boil.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| simmer |
Used when you want to cook food slowly and gently on low heat. This method is often used for sauces, stews, and soups to allow flavors to develop without burning or boiling over.
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| low boil |
Used when you need a consistent but not vigorous bubbling action, hotter than a gentle boil but not as intense as a full rolling boil. Suitable for cooking pasta, grains, and some vegetables.
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| gentle boil |
Used when you need a slight bubbling action that is stronger than a simmer but gentler than a full boil. Often used for delicate foods like fish or eggs to cook them without breaking apart.
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| slow boil |
Similar to a low boil, it indicates a slower bubbling on low heat. Often used for prolonged cooking to tenderize tough cuts of meat or fully cook legumes.
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Examples of usage
- The stew was left to cook on a low simmer for hours.
- The soup was kept at a simmer to prevent it from boiling over.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Techniques
- Simmering is essential for making rich soups and stocks, allowing flavors to mix without burning.
- Many recipes suggest simmering for a couple of hours to deepen the taste, as it helps to soften tougher ingredients.
- Some sauces are best when left to simmer, as this thickens them and enhances their overall flavor.
Science
- The temperature for simmering is generally between 180ยฐF to 205ยฐF (82ยฐC to 96ยฐC), preventing churning while cooking.
- Simmering helps in the extraction of nutrients from food, making dishes more nutritious.
- The process also reduces evaporation, allowing for a more concentrated flavor profile in dishes.
Cultural Practices
- In various cultures, simmering is a traditional way to prepare meals, often associated with slow cooking techniques.
- In many families, simmering a pot of soup is a way to bring everyone together for meals and conversations.
- Certain cuisines with lengthy stews highlight the importance of simmering to develop complex flavors.
History
- Simmering has been a cooking method used since ancient times, allowing people to create hearty meals with minimal resources.
- Historical records show that simmering techniques were widely used in Roman kitchens for broth-making.
- In medieval Europe, simmering was key for preparing medicinal potions, showcasing its historical significance in cooking.
Psychology
- The act of simmering can be a metaphor for emotional management, representing a way to handle feelings gradually.
- Much like simmering food, people often need time to process emotions without them boiling over.
- Cooks often find the process meditative, as focusing on simmering ingredients can be calming and satisfying.
Origin of 'simmer'
The word 'simmer' originated from the Middle English word 'simeren', which in turn came from the Old English word 'sฤซmorian'. The verb 'simmer' has been used since the 17th century to refer to gently cooking something just below boiling point. Over time, the word has also come to be used metaphorically to describe emotions or situations that are slowly building up intensity.