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a cooking tool that allows for gentle heating and melting of foods by using two pans, with the lower pan holding water and the upper pan holding the food
What is a "double boiler"?
A double boiler, also known as a bain-marie, is a kitchen tool used for gentle heating or melting of delicate foods, such as chocolate, custards, sauces, or melting butter. It consists of two nested pots, with the bottom pot filled with water and the top pot resting on top, but not touching the water. The water in the bottom pot is heated, and the steam produced gently heats the contents of the top pot. This indirect heating method helps prevent scorching or overheating of the delicate ingredients, ensuring a smooth and even consistency. Double boilers come in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or glass, and may have a lid to help retain heat and moisture.
