Great Green Idea: Green Eating: Infra-Red Cooking Methods

Infra-Red Cooking Methods

Infra-red cooking methods have been existence for a long time. Open cooking over a flame is one type of infra-red cooking. Infra-red energy is being produced. When grilling with an open fire (or coal), the red or yellow-orange color can be seen, giving evidence of infra-red energy being released. The more red color that can be seen, the more infra-red energy is being formed.

Moisture Preservation

Using infra-red cooking methods also bring the added benefit of moisture preservation within the food. Moisture is driven from the outside of the food to inside creating a more moist food item to enjoy. Better tasting food is generally the result, if cooked for the correct amount of time. Less shrinkage to the food also occurs resulting in greater food weight.

Cooking Time

When using infra-red cooking methods, cooking time is shortened. When using infra-red grills, the time needed to preheat the grill is also reduced. Efficiency is also a wonderful benefit when using this type of grill. Cooling time of the grill is also reduced creating more efficiency for the user.

Flavor Enhancement

Using infra-red cooking methods definitely enhance the flavor of food items. Many times the food will taste succulent if not overcooked. This type of cooking can be used for a wide array of food items including meats, seafood, vegetables, fruits as well as breads or tortillas.

When foods are prepared that are pleasing to the taste buds, the family is more likely to eat healthier foods more often. Family time also becomes more enjoyable when cooking time is less stressful as well as nearly effortless.

Even Heating

Food cooked using infra-red cooking provide more even heating during the cooking process. The food is seared first creating a "seal" to retain juices and nutrients within the food. The cooking temperature of the grill as well as the food remains constant during the infra-red cooking process.

Infra-Red Kitchen Appliances

Infra-red kitchen appliances are available to use with in the home. They generally take up less space than a microwave and can be used on the countertop. Some infra-red appliances also use infra-red cooking in combination with convection cooking processes.

Returning the Basics

Many individuals are returning to the basic principles of infra-red cooking methods. In the days before stoves and microwaves, cooking was done over an open fire. It was a natural way to cook healthier foods. Foods were also non-processed and in a natural state. Eating healthier foods was better for the consumers.

Several companies have provided the consumer market the ability to continue this type of cooking method indoors or outdoors in less time and effort. They have also given the consumers help in thinking about cooking healthier and returning to the basics.