Undercook

To cook (food) for an insufficient amount of time, resulting in it not being fully cooked. This often leaves the food raw, or partially raw, in the center or throughout. The degree of 'undercooking' can vary, from barely warmed to dangerously raw, particularly with meats and poultry. Proper cooking is crucial for food safety, as undercooked food can harbor harmful bacteria that lead to illness. The term is used both in professional culinary settings and everyday home cooking when referring to preparation that is less than done.

Undercook meaning with examples

• The chicken was visibly pink near the bone. The guests were hesitant and the host feared the food would give them all salmonella poisoning. The chef was extremely embarrassed and rushed back into the kitchen to continue the cooking of the poultry to ensure they were fully cooked.
• She decided to order a burger from the new restaurant, requesting it cooked medium-well, but when it arrived, it was nearly raw in the center. She was so upset that she sent the burger back, and it returned cooked to a much higher degree.
• The cookies came out of the oven looking golden, but when she bit into one, the center was gooey and not firm. She realized she had undercooked them, and, even though they were delicious, she decided to put them back in the oven.
• After checking the internal temperature, the roast was still rare. She continued to cook the meat longer to reach the desired medium temperature and avoid the dangers of undercooked meat.