What does "en papillote" refer to in cooking?

"En papillote" refers to a method of cooking food in a sealed pouch, typically made from parchment paper or aluminum foil. This technique allows food to steam in its own juices, enhancing flavor and tenderness while keeping the dish moist. When the pouch is cooked, it traps steam and creates an environment that effectively steams the ingredients inside. This method is particularly popular for cooking fish and vegetables, as it prevents them from drying out and often incorporates various herbs and spices, which can infuse the dish with aromatic flavors.

In this context, steaming in a pouch is the hallmark of "en papillote" cooking, distinguishing it from other techniques like direct grilling or baking without any enclosure. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of this cooking style; for instance, serving food raw or cooking on an open flame divert from the specific purpose of the en papillote method.