What cooking method involves preparing food in the oven?

Baking is a cooking method that involves using dry heat in an oven to prepare food. This technique relies on the circulation of hot air in the oven to cook food evenly, allowing it to develop a desirable texture and flavor. Typically, baking is associated with bread, pastries, and other dough-based items, but it can also be used for a variety of dishes, including casseroles and roasted meats.

In contrast, boiling involves cooking food in water or broth at high temperatures, simmering is cooking food gently in liquid at lower temperatures, and frying involves cooking food in fat or oil at high temperatures. Each of these methods utilizes different principles of heat transfer and results in distinct flavors and textures, making baking its unique culinary technique.