Bain-marie

Bain-Marie (Mary's bath) refers to the method of placing a pan of food in another pan with water in it to stabilize the heat reaching the food (water bath). The term was originally used in alchemy, and was named after Moses' sister, who was an alchemist. Also, in Australia, a large display case the bottom of which contains an electric element and is filled with water. When switched on, the element heats the water; stainless steel pans are then placed above the water and it is used to keep food hot. Can also be used (without turning power on) with ice to keep food cold.