What does it mean to bind ingredients in cooking?

In cooking, binding ingredients refers to the process of combining them using a binding agent. A binding agent, such as eggs, flour, or breadcrumbs, helps to hold the mixture together, creating a cohesive texture that prevents separation during cooking or handling. This method is commonly used in dishes like meatballs, burgers, and certain baked goods where stability is crucial for the final product’s structure.

The other choices do not accurately describe the binding process. For instance, separating ingredients before mixing does not promote cohesion. Blending ingredients until smooth suggests a complete mixture, which may not necessarily include a binding agent, and cooking ingredients together in one pan describes a cooking technique rather than the process of binding.