The key difference between simmering and boiling is the size of the bubbles.
Courtney West
One of the most basic cooking skills is boiling water.
Boiling, a high-heat method is better for speedy dishes, while simmering is lower in temperature and gentler.
Credit:Courtney West
Read on to learn the difference between simmering and boiling water and when to use each cooking method.
What Is Simmering Water?
Simmering water has small bubbles that occasionally rise to the surface and little to no steam.
Credit: Emily Laurae/Southern Living
This low-and-slow style of cooking is super versatile: Simmer to reduce or thickensaucesor break down cuts of meat.
Youll also often see the simmer as an instruction when making stews and soups.
Or use simmering water to poach delicate ingredients like fish, eggs, or fruit.
What Is Boiling Water?
Boiling water is 212F.
Simmer Vs.
Boil: What’s the Difference?
Simmering water is the stage before boiling water.
It is gently bubbling, hot water about 20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than boiling water.
It is ideal for soups, stews, and braises.
Boiling water is rapidly bubbling and steaming water that can quickly cook grains or blanch vegetables.
