What is the process of adding liquid to a pan to dissolve browned bits of food called?

The process of adding liquid to a pan to dissolve the browned bits of food is known as deglazing. This culinary technique is commonly used after sautéing or frying when pieces of food and fond—that flavorful layer of caramelized bits—stick to the bottom of the pan. By adding a liquid (which can be water, broth, wine, or other flavorful liquids), the chef uses heat to lift these remnants from the pan, creating a rich base for sauces and gravies. This technique enhances flavor and helps ensure that nothing goes to waste, turning what might be potential remnants into a delicious component of a dish.

Emulsifying refers to the process of mixing two liquids that typically do not combine, such as oil and vinegar. Sautéing is the cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. Braising, on the other hand, is a technique that involves cooking food slowly in a small amount of liquid, usually after a preliminary browning step. Each of these terms describes different cooking methods and actions, distinguishing them clearly from the process of deglazing.