What's a Double Boiler?

A bain-marie, a type of heated bath, is a piece of equipment used in science, industry, and cooking to heat materials gently or to keep materials warm over a period of time. A bain-marie is also used to melt ingredients for cooking.

What can I use in place of a double boiler?

Substitute for Double Boiler

The best double boiler substitute that you can use is to use a small pot or saucepan with a small base, as the bottom half of the boiler. Now pour water into the pot until it is filled one or two inch from the bottom. Place it over the stove and let it come to a gentle boil.

What does a double boiler do?

Double boilers provide precise temperature control. They provide even, radiant heat by using water to heat the conductive surface of the smaller container. That makes the double boiler a popular method for creating specific kinds of dishes and ingredients like: Chocolate sauce.