What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
boiled
Example
She boiled the potatoes until they were soft. [boiled: past tense]
Example
The recipe calls for boiled eggs as one of the ingredients. [boiled: adjective]
simmered
Example
The soup needs to be simmered for at least an hour to develop its rich flavors. [simmered: verb]
Example
The recipe suggests using simmered chicken broth for a more flavorful dish. [simmered: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Boiled is more commonly used than simmered in everyday language, as it is a more general cooking term. Boiled is versatile and can be applied to various ingredients and dishes. On the other hand, simmered is more specific and commonly used in recipes or discussions about slow-cooking techniques.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between boiled and simmered?
Both boiled and simmered can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, boiled is more commonly used in everyday conversations, while simmered is often encountered in cooking-related discussions or recipes, giving it a slightly more formal tone.