Food & Drink

English for Cooking & Recipes

"Simmer for 10 minutes." Understand recipe instructions and cook delicious meals.

EM
EnglishMeet Team
Nov 24, 2025 · 5 min read

Following a recipe in English can be tricky if you don't know the specific verbs. Here is a guide to common cooking terms.

1. Preparation Verbs

2. Cooking Methods

Key Terms:

  • Boil: Cook in very hot water (100°C).
  • Simmer: Cook gently just below boiling point.
  • Fry: Cook in hot oil.
  • Bake: Cook in the oven (cakes, bread).
  • Roast: Cook in the oven (meat, vegetables).

3. Measurements

Recipes use specific abbreviations.

4. Describing Taste

How was the food?

  • Delicious / Tasty: Very good.
  • Spicy: Hot (chili).
  • Salty: Too much salt.
  • Bland: No flavor.
  • Sour: Like a lemon.

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