烘烤

烘烤 refers to the process of baking using dry, even heat, typically in an oven. It emphasizes the method of cooking with consistent warmth rather than direct flame or water-based methods.

The character 烘 (hōng) originally meant to dry or warm, often used in the context of drying things like clothes or food. 烤 (kǎo) means to roast or bake, especially over fire or in an oven. Together, they highlight a gentle, even heating process.

烘烤 is commonly used in cooking contexts, such as baking bread, cakes, or pastries. It is distinct from 烧烤 (shāo kǎo), which refers to grilling or barbecuing over open flame. In Chinese cuisine,烘烤 is essential for many Western-style baked goods and is also used in modern home kitchens.