Definition: A bain Marie is a utensil and a cooking technique. One container with food to be cooked is placed in another, larger pan containing water that is at the simmering point. This method of cooking surrounds the food with very gentle heat and is used for cooking delicate dishes like custards or white sauces, or melting chocolates
A large pan that is filled with hot water; smaller pans can be set in a bain-maire to keep food warm or to cook food slowly. Sometimes used when making a Bernaise Sauce.
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