Basting is a cooking technique that involves spooning or brushing liquid over food while it cooks. This liquid can be anything from melted butter to broth or marinade. The purpose of basting is to keep the food moist, enhance its flavor, and promote even cooking, especially for larger cuts of meat like turkey or roast beef. In addition to improving moisture and flavor, basting can also help achieve a desirable texture and color on the food's surface. For example, when roasting, basting can create a golden-brown crust on chicken or pork. This technique is commonly used in various cooking methods, including roasting and grilling.