Papillotte

Papillote is a cooking technique where food is enclosed in a folded parchment paper or aluminum foil packet and then baked. The word "papillote" itself is French and translates to "in parchment." This method traps steam released from the food, which cooks it gently and evenly while infusing it with the flavors of any added ingredients, such as herbs, spices, vegetables, or sauces.

The process is relatively simple. A piece of parchment paper or foil is typically cut into a large square or circle. The main ingredient, often fish, chicken, or vegetables, is placed in the center. Other ingredients and seasonings are added around it, and then the paper or foil is folded tightly to create a sealed pouch. This pouch is then placed on a baking sheet and cooked in an oven.

Cooking en papillote offers several advantages. It is a healthy cooking method as it requires little to no added fat. The enclosed steam helps retain moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes. Cleanup is also simplified, as the packet contains any juices and drippings, making it easy to discard after the meal. This technique is versatile and can be adapted to a wide range of ingredients and flavor profiles.