Thermal Preparation of Food and Its Influence on Shaping the Old and Modern Kitchen

Fire, first open and then closed, was kindled and maintained through the ages. Fire started in hearths allowed for lighting and heating rooms and thermal processing of food. It considerably changed the quality of the domestic life (thus the English term “hearth” stands not only for a fireplace itself but extended its meaning into the concept of home.). Emergence of fire contributed to emergence and development of economy, including industry. High temperatures were obtained initially by burning wood, and later coal and gas. Electrification also enabled application an electric arc, microwaves and electromagnetic induction for the same purpose of obtaining high temperatures. Fire and high temperature have always played a significant role in households. They have been used for heating living spaces as well as for thermal processing of food, thus affecting spatial arrangement of rooms and a sequence of household activities and housework. Striving for comfortable conditions in flats inspired specific actions, which consequently were directed towards subduing and maintaining fire, removing smoke and ash, etc. The research paper discusses a historical evolution of appliances for thermal processing of food and their influence on organization and arrangement of contemporary kitchen work.