What does 'slacking' refer to in food preparation?

Slacking refers specifically to the gradual thawing of frozen food, allowing it to reach a temperature suitable for cooking or further preparation. This process is crucial for maintaining food safety, as it prevents the outer layers of the food from reaching temperatures that could promote bacterial growth before the inner portion is fully thawed.

When food is slacked, it is typically done in a controlled and safe manner, such as transferring the frozen food from the freezer to the refrigerator, or placing it in cool water, ensuring that the temperature remains within safe limits. This method also helps to maintain the quality and texture of the food, so it cooks evenly.

The other options do not accurately define slacking. Cooking food rapidly, cooling hot food, and marinating meats serve different purposes in food preparation processes and do not align with the concept of thawing frozen food gradually.