Grinding and pounding
Spices, herbs and other ingredients are usually ground and pounded in a large, heavy
mortar made of stone. The interior of the mortar should be rough to grip the ingredients and act as an abrasive . The pestle needs to be heavy too, made of the same stone, to provide the right weight for pounding and grinding.
DRY-FRYING
Dried spices are often roasted before grinding to release their natural oils and enhance the aroma . This is done by spreading the spices thinly in a heavy frying pan and putting it over a high heat. As the pan begins to heat, shake it so that the spices don't get too brown.
Once the spices begin lo colour and their aroma fills the a ir, put them in a mortar and grind to a powder.
The classic method for slow-cooked dishes is braising. Generally, oily fish, duck and red meat are cooked this way, often with pungent herbs, spices and coconut milk or juice. Traditionally, to seal in the moisture, a covered clay pot is used as the cooking vessel. Placed over a medium heat, or in the oven, the cooking process can take anything from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the dish. If you don't have a clay pot, use a heavy-based casserole. The key is in containing the moisture and even heat distribution, so don't use a thin aluminium pot.
GRILLING OVER CHARCOAL
Wooden and bamboo skewers
If you are using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning.
BLANCHING
This method is often used to cook delicate meat such as chicken breast portions or duck.
DEEP-FRYING
Use an oil that can be heated to a high temperature, such as groundnut (peanut) oil, and don't put in too much cold food at once. as this will cool the oil down.
- Pour the oil into a pan or wok (filling it no more than two-thirds lull) and heat to about 180°C/350°F. To test the temperature. add a drop of batter or a piece of onion If it sinks, the oil is not hot enough; if it burns. it is too hot. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the temperature is perfect.
- Cook the food in small batches until crisp and lift out with a slotted spoon or wire mesh skimmer when cooked. Drain on a wire rack lined with kitchen paper and serve immediately, or keep warm in the oven until ready to serve.