Cooking is the practice or skill of preparing food for consumption by applying heat, combining ingredients, and employing various techniques. It encompasses a wide range of methods, tools, and ingredients to create meals, snacks, and beverages. Cooking can occur at a basic level, such as boiling or baking, or involve more complex procedures like fermenting or sous-vide. The process not only alters the taste and texture of food but also has the potential to enhance its nutritional value and safety by eliminating harmful pathogens. Cooking varies widely across different cultures and cuisines, influenced by tradition, available ingredients, and regional preferences. It can be both a practical necessity for sustenance and an art form that brings people together through shared meals and culinary creativity.