Water

Dihydrogen monoxide (H₂O) Liquid, Solvent, Basic Ingredient

Water Liquid, Solvent, Basic Ingredient

At a Glance

  • Category Liquid, Solvent, Basic Ingredient

The Forktionary Angle

"The universal solvent and culinary backbone, often overlooked but absolutely essential for transformative cooking."

Definition

A transparent, odorless, tasteless liquid essential for all known forms of life, widely used in cooking as a solvent, cooking medium, and ingredient.

Boiling Point Boils at 100°C (212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure.
Culinary Functions Used for simmering, steaming, boiling, dissolving, and hydration.
Universal Solvent Dissolves more substances than any other liquid, crucial for flavor extraction.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Water are:

Neutral Pure

Chef’s Secret

When boiling pasta, use a very large pot of salted water. The generous volume keeps the water temperature stable, preventing gluey pasta, and salt seasons the pasta from within.

Best Substitutes

Broth/Stock

for adding flavor and liquid
Ratio 1:1

Milk

for richness in some recipes
Ratio 1:1

Coconut Water

for slight sweetness and electrolytes
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For drinking, consider filtered or bottled options for purity. For cooking, tap water is usually sufficient.

Recipes Using Water

Weeknight Comfort Food Taste Mood White Rice

Aunt Becky's Porcupine Meatballs

A treasured family recipe passed down through generations! These hearty porcupine meatballs, simmered in a rich tomato sauce, are a comforting classic that's sure to become a family favorite. Tender meatballs, bursting with flavor, served over creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice – pure comfort food perfection! Get ready for rave reviews!

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Desserts Eggs Dairy Midwestern Preparation

Aunt Debbies Cherry Dessert

A light and fluffy dessert reminiscent of cheesecake, but with a cloud-like texture! This family recipe, passed down from Aunt Debbie, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Imagine a dreamy cream cheese base swirled with luscious cherry pie filling – it's pure indulgence. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a special treat for yourself. Prepare to be amazed!

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Christmas American Dietary Equipment

Aunt Nan's Cranberry Pudding

This family-favorite cranberry pudding recipe has been a Christmas tradition for generations! Easy to make ahead and freeze for later, this delightful treat features tender cranberry-studded muffins topped with a luscious warm butter sauce. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

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Easy Vegetables Preparation Easy

Aunt Winnie's Corn Casserole

This legendary corn casserole recipe, passed down through generations (even without an Aunt Winnie!), is a Thanksgiving must-have. Simple to make, yet bursting with flavor, this creamy, cheesy, and corn-licious side dish will become your family's new favorite. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Low In Something Pies And Tarts Desserts Course

Auntie Barbara's Yummy Easy Danish Pastry

A family favorite recipe passed down through generations! This impressive yet easy-to-make Danish pastry is perfect for any occasion. Crispy, flaky layers meet a delicious almond-flavored custard topping. Detailed step-by-step photos guide you through the process, ensuring picture-perfect results every time. This recipe yields one large tray-baked pastry, easily sliced into servings. (Note: Almond extract is stronger than almond essence; adjust quantity to taste.)

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Barbecue Eggs Dairy Main Ingredient Small Appliance

Australian Damper

Authentic Australian Outback Campfire Bread! This hearty, rustic loaf is traditionally cooked in the embers of a campfire, making it the perfect companion for your next camping adventure or a unique addition to your bush cooking repertoire. Learn how to make this simple yet incredibly flavorful bread, a true taste of the Australian outback.

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Asian Pork Preparation Time To Make

Authentic Chinese Pork Chow Mein

Craving takeout? Skip the delivery fees and make restaurant-quality Chinese Pork Chow Mein at home! This recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers a rich, savory flavor that's even better than your favorite takeout. Customize it to your liking – add extra soy sauce for a bolder taste, or include fresh garlic for an extra aromatic kick. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this authentic and delicious dish!

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Preparation North American Grains Caribbean

Authentic Cuban Rolls

Craving the taste of Miami? Authentic Cuban bread, the star of the famous Cuban sandwich, is notoriously hard to find outside of South Florida. But now you can make it at home! This recipe offers three methods—manual, mixer, and bread machine—so you can choose the easiest way to bake these delicious rolls. These perfectly crusty and airy rolls will transport you straight to a Cuban cafe. Get ready to experience the ultimate flavor! Don't forget to check out our recipe for the perfect Cuban sandwich (recipe #320914) to complete the experience!

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Main Ingredient Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Meat

Authentic Japanese Gyoza

Craving authentic Japanese gyoza? This recipe, straight from Japan, delivers the most incredible homemade dumplings you'll ever taste! Get ready to get your hands dirty and create restaurant-quality gyoza from the comfort of your kitchen. Don't miss this incredibly flavorful and satisfying recipe – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project.

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Cheesecake Number Of Servings Cheesecake 4 Hours Or Less

Authentic Lindy's Famous New York Cheesecake

Indulge in the legendary Lindy's New York Cheesecake! This recipe recreates the dense, creamy texture and rich flavor that made this cheesecake a classic. Perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to experience the ultimate New York-style cheesecake!

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Course Dietary High In Something High Calcium

Authentic Salvadorean Pupusas

Dive into the delicious world of Salvadorean cuisine with this authentic Pupusas recipe! While it requires some effort, the result is well worth it – perfectly crispy pupusas bursting with savory beans and melty cheese. This recipe is traditionally served with curtido (recipe #271297) and salsa roja (recipe #292499) for the ultimate flavor experience. Learn to make these handmade delicacies from scratch!

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Seasonal Course Occasion Equipment

Autumn Chicken With Harvest Vegetables

Cozy up to the delicious flavors of fall with this Autumn Chicken with Harvest Vegetables recipe! Imagine: crisp autumn air, vibrant leaves crunching underfoot, and the irresistible aroma of roasted chicken and fresh-from-the-garden vegetables filling your kitchen. This winning (2008 Craze-e Crockpot Cooking Contest!) recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and delivers a heartwarming meal that's perfect for chilly evenings. Tender chicken, seasonal vegetables, and fragrant thyme combine for a dish that will nourish your soul and leave you feeling wonderfully satisfied. Get ready for a taste of autumn you won't forget!

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15 Minutes Or Less Number Of Servings For 1 Or 2 Puddings And Mousses

Avocado And Berry Pudding Raw Food

Indulge in this vibrant and refreshing Avocado & Berry Raw Pudding! This 5-minute recipe (adapted from the 2004 cookbook "Raw Foods for Busy People") is perfect for a quick and healthy dessert or snack. Creamy avocado blends seamlessly with sweet berries for a naturally delicious treat that's both vegan and gluten-free.

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Soups Stews Meat Main Ingredient Poultry

Awesome Beef Or Chicken Taco Soup

Warm up with this hearty and crowd-pleasing Taco Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings or feeding a large group, this recipe boasts a rich, flavorful broth packed with beef or chicken, beans, and all your favorite taco toppings. Easy to customize and guaranteed to be a family favorite!

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Easy Dietary Course Main Dish

Awesome Sloppy Joes

These Sloppy Joes are a family favorite, boasting a delicious kick and using pantry staples! Betty Crocker's classic recipe gets a quick and easy upgrade. Kids and adults will love this quick 20-minute meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Meat Savory Sauces 3 Steps Or Less Cuisine

B K Spanish Sauce For Hot Dogs

Recreate the legendary B&K Drive-In's secret hot dog sauce recipe from Logansport, Indiana! This rich and savory sauce is simmered to perfection, delivering an unforgettable flavor experience that's perfect for topping your favorite hot dogs or enjoying on its own. Get ready for a taste of nostalgia!

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Omelets And Frittatas Time To Make Low Carb Preparation

Bacon And Potato Frittata

This hearty Bacon and Potato Frittata is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Easily customizable with your favorite veggies and cheeses, this recipe from Woman's World is quick to make and bursting with flavor! Feel free to add your own creative twists.

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Oamc Freezer Make Ahead African 4 Hours Or Less Meat

L Ham Lahlou Algerian North African Sweet Lamb Dish

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of L Ham Lahlou, a traditional Algerian dessert lamb dish perfect for Ramadan, special occasions, or any time you crave a unique culinary experience. This recipe, passed down through generations, features tender lamb infused with warm spices and sweet fruits. While traditionally served as a delightful after-dinner treat, its rich and satisfying taste makes it a memorable addition to any meal. Easily adaptable to your preferences, you can experiment with various fruits to create your signature version. This recipe freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying individual portions later. Discover the magic of this North African treasure and prepare for a taste sensation!

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