tempering

Definition

Gradually equalizing temperatures between ingredients to prevent curdling, seizing, or thermal shock. The delicate dance of slowly introducing cold eggs to hot liquid without making scrambled egg soup.

Example Usage

Temper the egg yolks by whisking in a bit of the hot cream mixture before adding them to the pot.

Origin

Latin 'temperare' meaning 'to mix in due proportion' or 'to regulate'

Fun Fact

Chocolate tempering follows specific temperature curves to create that perfect snap and glossy finish—get it wrong and you'll have sad, chalky chocolate.

Source: Classical culinary and pastry techniques

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