Question

A shallow pan may be placed on the same rack that's holding a pie to catch any filling that might boil over. What is the purpose of placing a shallow pan on the same rack as a pie?

A) To add flavor to the pie
B) To make the pie cook faster
C) To catch any boiling over filling
D) To keep the pie warm

Answer 1

The correct answer is option C. Placing a shallow pan on the same rack as a pie is to catch any boiling over filling.

Step-by-step explanation:

Placing a shallow pan on the same rack as a pie serves the crucial purpose of catching any boiling-over filling. This technique is especially common when baking fruit pies, as the fruit filling has a tendency to bubble and overflow during the baking process.

By positioning a shallow pan on the rack beneath the pie, any excess filling that bubbles out is captured, preventing it from dripping onto the oven floor or heating element.

This precautionary measure not only helps maintain a clean oven but also prevents potential smoke or burning odors that can arise if the filling comes into contact with the oven's hot surfaces.

Additionally, avoiding spills in the oven helps to prevent a sticky mess that can be challenging to clean up later.

While this method primarily addresses practical concerns related to cleanliness and oven maintenance, it does not directly contribute to flavor enhancement, speeding up the cooking time, or keeping the pie warm.

Instead, it ensures a more seamless baking experience by mitigating the risks associated with a pie's natural tendency to release steam and juices during the baking process.