What is meant by de-skinning?

De-skinning refers specifically to the process of removing the skin from fruits or vegetables. This technique is often employed to enhance the texture and taste of the food, making it more palatable or suitable for certain recipes. For instance, removing the skin from potatoes before mashing can result in a smoother texture, while skinning tomatoes is common in sauces to achieve a more refined consistency.

The other choices do not align with the definition of de-skinning: cooking food at high temperatures pertains to different cooking methods, chopping involves cutting food into smaller pieces without regard to their skin, and drying is a method of preservation rather than a technique that involves skin removal. Therefore, understanding de-skinning is essential for effective food preparation, particularly in recipes that specify the need for peeled or skinless ingredients.