What cooking method involves using steam to cook food?

The cooking method that involves using steam to cook food is steaming. This technique is primarily characterized by cooking food in the presence of steam, which allows for gentle and even cooking while retaining moisture and nutrients. Steaming is often used for vegetables, fish, and certain grains, as it helps preserve their color, flavor, and nutritional value, making it a health-conscious cooking choice.

In contrast, baking utilizes dry heat in an oven, which does not involve steam. Poaching involves cooking food gently in water or broth at a low temperature, but it does not utilize steam as the primary cooking medium. Grilling employs direct heat from below, which results in a distinct char and flavor but also does not use steam as a cooking technique. Therefore, steaming stands out as the method specifically involving steam for cooking.