What is broiling?

Broiling is a cooking method in which food is placed under a source of direct radiant heat, typically in an oven, until it is browned or cooked through. This method is similar to grilling, as both use direct heat to cook food quickly. However, with broiling the heat source is above the food, while with grilling the heat is below the food. This makes broiling well-suited for cooking tender cuts of meat, fish, and vegetables, as well as for making certain types of dishes like flambe and gratins.

What foods can be cooked by broiling?

Many different types of foods can be cooked by broiling, including:

• Meats such as steaks, chops, and chicken breasts.
• Fish like salmon and swordfish.
• Shellfish like shrimp and scallops.
• Veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, and asparagus.
• Fruits such as pineapple and peaches.
• Cheese dishes such as Welsh Rarebit.

Because broiling uses direct, high heat, it works best for thinner, more tender cuts of meat and fish, as well as for vegetables that don’t take long to cook. Foods that are too thick or tough may not cook through before burning on the outside. Foods with a high fat content can also cause flare ups or smoke under the broiler.

It is always recommended to adjust the oven rack to the top or closest to the heat source and monitor the food while broiling.

Also it’s important to note, broiling can also be used as a technique to finish or add char/browning to dishes, like on top of gratins, meat or fish.

What are some good dishes that can be made in the broiler?

There are many delicious dishes that can be made using a broiler, here are some examples:

• Broiled steak: A classic dish that is easy to make and can be flavored with a variety of seasonings or marinades.
• Broiled chicken: Seasoned chicken breasts can be broiled until cooked through and crispy on the outside.
• Broiled fish: Fish like salmon, swordfish, and halibut can be broiled and topped with butter, herbs, and lemon.
• Broiled shrimp: Tossed with garlic butter, lemon juice and seasonings, broiled shrimp can be a great appetizer or main dish.
• Broiled vegetables: Bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, and asparagus can be broiled until lightly charred and tender, and then served as a side dish or added to sandwiches, salads, or pasta.
• Broiled Fruit: Pineapple, peaches, and other fruits can be broiled until caramelized and served with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream.
• Broiled Pizza: Pizza dough or pre-made pizza can be broiled to get a crispy crust and melted cheese.
• Broiled Sandwiches: broiling can also be used to melt cheese, toast bread, and melt/brown toppings of a sandwich.
• Gratins: traditionally made with a béchamel sauce, potatoes, cheese and cream, can be broiled to get a golden-brown top.

As a general rule, when broiling, it is important to keep a close eye on the food as it can burn easily, and also use oven mitts or tongs to move it in and out of the oven.

Selected Recipes

How many great recipes will you make with lamb, polenta, lemon, and asparagus?

Broil • Lamb • Polenta • Rosemary • Lemon • Asparagus


• This Roasted Rack of Lamb with Asparagus, Artichokes and Polenta Cups is worth the extra work.





What can you make with cheese, grains, bacon, and fennel?

Broil • Cheese • Other Grain • Cilantro • Bacon • Fennel


• This Caramelized Fennel and Bacon Pizza does not call for herbs, but a cilantro garnish will add some tasty color.





How will you combine chicken with grains, bacon, and radishes?

Broil • Chicken • Other Grain • Rosemary • Bacon • Radish


• Serve these Rosemary Chicken Bacon Skewers with Radish and Pecan Grain Salad.





Other Recent Updates

• Broil Eggs, Other Grain, Basil, Mushroom, and Parsnip
• Broil Beef, Potato, Parsley, Garlic, and Tomato