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Cooking With S.T.E.A.M.

Cooking with STEAM

What do cooking and STEAM have in common? More than you think! And we are not talking about the steam that you might see coming out of a tea kettle, we mean S-T-E-A-M!

STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guided inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. The end results are kids who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. STEAM is a kind of literacy that removes artificial boundaries and replaces them with wonder, critique, inquiry, and innovation.

Cooking with STEAM

Now, let’s look at Asian cooking through the lens of STEAM. Asian cooking is diverse and is rooted in thousands of years of experimentation and study. As we all know, the results of these efforts are delicious. So why not learn more about Asian cuisine and polish up on our STEAM skills as well?

A Nod to Mathematics!

Math shows up in all aspects of cooking. In fact, the better your math skills are, the better you will be in the kitchen. Just think about all the different ways math is used while cooking! Important skills such as converting temperature, changing quantities, weight and cooking time, and converting measurements are all critical to following recipes. Passion may be your guide when cooking in the kitchen, but don't forget the importance of math! 

Asian Cooking Styles

One thing most Asian cultures have in common is that they share the same tradition of families gathering together to share meals, socialize and celebrate. However, the food and types of preparation can vary widely through the continent.

  1. Southwest style that includes cuisines from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Burma and the neighboring areas. This style has its roots in Persian-Arabian traditions.
  2. Northeast style that comprises China, Korea, and Japan.
  3. Southeast style, which includes Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and the neighboring areas.

The types of utensils and cooking tools also vary. While some regions are focused on woks and chopsticks, others prefer cooking on hot open coals and eating by hand. Here, we will explore all of these wonderful features of Asian cooking! 

Map of Asia

Almost every aspect of modern life intersects somehow with science. This is especially true when it comes to producing, preparing and eating food. Cooking food through a science perspectives allows parents to spark their child's interests while approaching complicated concepts through a science-positive approach.

Kitchen Safety

At Asia Society, safety is our first priority. Please read our Kitchen Safety Tips and share them with young learners. Don't take chances, play it safe!

kitchen safety chart

Be sure to check in regularly for new culinary techniques! Coming soon, The Science of Steaming.

Get Started

  • Culinary Technique Boiling

    The Science of Boiling

    Did you know that there is so much more to boiling than hot water bubbling in a pot? Learn about how the techniques of poaching, simmering and boiling are used in Asian recipes.
  • Culinary Technique Emulsions

    The Science of Emulsions

    Emulsion is a science term for a combination of 2 liquids that don't usually mix. Come explore the many exciting components of emulsion and its connection to Asian cooking.
  • sugar 2

    The Science of Sugar

    Do you ever wonder how candy is made? We do! Join us for a sweet treat and learn about all the different ways sugar can be cooked to make Asian candy.
  • pickling and fermentation

    The Science of Pickling and Fermentations

    The terms pickling and fermenting are often used interchangeably, but they are quite different. Learn more about how these two food preparation techniques are used in Asian recipes.

Attachment

  • Kitchen Safety Chart_1.pdf (PDF, 39.38 KB)
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