Basting is a cooking technique that involves periodically applying liquid, such as melted fat, pan drippings, or a prepared sauce, over the surface of the food as it cooks. The primary purpose of basting is to keep the food moist, add flavor, and promote an even, golden-brown color on the exterior. Basting is commonly used when roasting or grilling meats, poultry, and fish.
To baste, you can use a basting brush, spoon, or a bulb baster (also called a turkey baster) to collect the liquid and then gently spread or squirt it over the food. It is essential to baste at regular intervals during the cooking process, usually every 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and type of food being cooked. However, it’s important not to open the oven or grill too frequently, as this can cause heat loss and extend the cooking time.
