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

Breakfast Low Saturated Fat Healthy 2 Main Dish

African Donuts

Indulge in the irresistible taste of African Donuts (Mahamri)! This beloved recipe, popular across West, Central, and parts of East Africa, is incredibly versatile. Enjoy these fluffy, subtly sweet donuts for breakfast with honey or your favorite fruit preserves, or as a savory treat at dinner alongside red beans and diced beef. Discover a delicious culinary tradition with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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Healthy Preparation Swiss German

Bavarian Pretzel Rolls

Craving the taste of Bavaria? This recipe, sourced from a friend who recently returned from Switzerland, delivers authentic Bavarian pretzel rolls that surpass the typical mall food court fare. Experience the rich, chewy texture and irresistible flavor of true Bavarian pretzels, made with a time-honored recipe. Prepare to be amazed! (Note: Prep time does not include proofing time.)

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Equipment Number Of Servings Dietary Time To Make

Best Ever Peanut Butter Cookies

Craving melt-in-your-mouth, chewy peanut butter cookies? These are the BEST! Soft, irresistible, and perfectly enhanced with optional nuts and chocolate chips. A crowd-pleasing classic, these cookies are always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings – get ready for requests! This slightly tweaked family recipe delivers unparalleled peanut buttery goodness.

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Easy American Breakfast Easy

Betty Crocker Wild Blueberry Pancakes

Fluffy, sweet, and bursting with wild blueberries! These easy-to-make pancakes are hands-down the yummiest you'll ever taste. Perfect for weekend brunch or a quick weeknight treat. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Time To Make Equipment Pork Main Ingredient

Beer Brined Pork Chops

Unlock unbelievably juicy and tender pork chops with this easy beer brine recipe! The quick brine infuses incredible flavor, while grilling delivers perfectly crisp edges in minutes. Get ready for a restaurant-quality meal in under an hour!

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Time To Make Pasta Rice And Grains European Time To Make

Angel Hair Fresca

This vibrant and surprisingly easy Angel Hair Fresca recipe is a game-changer! Inspired by a Publix flyer, this pasta dish is quick enough for a breakfast treat (yes, really!) or a delightful dinner. Featuring fresh broccoli and zesty pesto, it's a delicious and satisfying meal made with readily available supermarket ingredients. Get ready to impress yourself and your taste buds!

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Cuisine Healthy 2 Salads Low Cholesterol

Bavarian German Potato Salad

Craving a truly authentic German potato salad? This recipe, inspired by Bavarian family traditions, skips the mayo and bacon for a fresh, light, and flavorful vegetarian twist. Perfect as a side dish for your next German-themed feast or any occasion where you want a taste of Munich! This recipe avoids the common American-style potato salad and delivers the true taste of Bavaria.

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Preparation Pears Time To Make Main Ingredient

Apple Or Pear Ginger Jam

This tantalizing Apple (or Pear) Ginger Jam recipe is a treasured heirloom, passed down from my grandmother's Victorian kitchen! Perfect for using up a bumper crop of apples or pears, this recipe boasts a vibrant, tangy flavor with a delightful ginger kick. Easily adjustable to your ginger preference, it's wonderful on toast, scones, or as a sophisticated filling for tartlets. Get ready to savor a taste of history!

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Australian Desserts Taste Mood Cookies And Brownies

Anzac Biscuits With Macadamia Nuts

Indulge in the irresistible crunch of these Anzac biscuits, elevated with the luxurious addition of toasted macadamia nuts! This unique recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic, perfect for afternoon tea or a special treat. The subtle toastiness of the macadamias complements the chewy texture of the biscuits beautifully. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Main Dish Chicken Low Carb Inexpensive

Baked Smothered Chicken

This recipe for Baked Smothered Chicken has been a Sunday staple in my family for over 10 years, originating from the Little Rock UMC cookbook. It's unbelievably easy to make and delivers incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken smothered in a rich, homemade gravy. Perfect for a comforting family dinner! This recipe works with chicken breasts or thighs – you may need to adjust the water/flour ratio for the gravy depending on your choice of cut.

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Canadian Oven Low Sodium Quebec

Beto's Tender Pork Chops

This recipe, passed down through generations, delivers juicy, flavorful pork chops that will become a family favorite. Tender, perfectly seasoned, and incredibly easy to make – get ready for the best pork chops you've ever tasted! A comforting classic with a quick prep time.

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Main Ingredient Course Time To Make Lunch

Balsamic Vinaigrette Chicken Over Gourmet Greens

Juicy grilled chicken breasts tossed in a tangy homemade balsamic vinaigrette, served atop a bed of vibrant gourmet greens. This light yet satisfying recipe, adapted from Cooking Light, is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy lunch. Get ready to impress with this elegant and flavorful salad!

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Potluck North American Elbow Macaroni Main Ingredient

Aunt Louise Macaroni Salad

This vibrant and flavorful macaroni salad recipe is a family heirloom, passed down through generations! Originally a simple side dish, Aunt Louise's secret dressing elevates this classic to a holiday favorite. Bold and unforgettable, it's guaranteed to be a conversation starter – you'll either adore it or find it delightfully unique. Prepare to be amazed by this colorful and surprisingly addictive macaroni salad!

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Number Of Servings Main Dish Dietary Course

Beef And Potato Empanadas With Salsa Picante

A taste of Colombia! This family recipe for Beef and Potato Empanadas with Salsa Picante is a flavor explosion. Learn to make these savory pastries, bursting with tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and a fiery kick of homemade salsa picante. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this authentic Colombian dish is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready for a delicious journey!

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Desserts Cakes Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less

Aunt Agnes Broken Glass Cake

A vibrant and surprisingly simple dessert that'll remind you of a rainbow! Layers of colorful gelatin cubes in a creamy, dreamy vanilla mixture, nestled in a ladyfinger crust. This show-stopping cake is perfect for potlucks, parties, or a special treat for yourself. Get ready to wow your taste buds!

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To Go Easy Side Dishes Potatoes

Best Ever Potatoes

Creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible! These Best Ever Cheesy Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to be a hit at your next potluck, BBQ, or family dinner. Two kinds of melty cheese and tangy sour cream create a dreamy potato casserole that's easy to make and even easier to devour. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Vegetarian Salads Low Protein Diabetic

Balsamic Brown Rice Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Balsamic Brown Rice Salad perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or potluck contribution! This easy recipe combines nutty brown rice with sweet cranberries, crisp celery, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a flavor explosion. Best served chilled, but equally delicious at room temperature. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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