What is bain maries?

A Bain Marie is a type of heated water bath or double boiler that is used in cooking or heating food items gently and gradually. It is designed to maintain a consistent temperature by surrounding a container or pot with hot water. Bain Maries come in various sizes and shapes and are made from materials such as stainless steel, glass, or copper.

The term "Bain Marie" is derived from the French language and translates to "Mary's bath." This utensil is commonly used in bakeries, catering companies, and commercial kitchens for preparing milk-based desserts, custards, sauces, gravies, and many other food items that require slow and gentle heating.

The heat source of a Bain Marie can be electric, gas, or steam. The hot water surrounding the food container ensures that the food is cooked evenly without burning or scorching. The steam generated by the heated water also helps to keep the food moist and retains its original flavor and nutrients.

Bain Maries are also commonly used in self-serve buffet lines to keep food warm and fresh for extended periods. They are ideal for serving prepared dishes such as mashed potatoes, macaroni, and cheese, soups, and stews.

In summary, a Bain Marie is a useful and versatile cooking tool that provides gentle and uniform heating to a wide variety of food items, ensuring that they are cooked evenly and retain their original flavor and nutrients.