Mix
Mixing is combining two or more ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout each other. It is a general, gentle action that can be done with a spoon, spatula, whisk, or electric mixer, and it does not necessarily aim to add air or build structure the way beating or whipping does. The purpose is simply a uniform blend, whether that is stirring dry ingredients together or folding wet and dry components into a single batter.
Cooks mix constantly, and the key skill is knowing when to stop. For muffins, pancakes, and quick breads, mix only until the flour disappears, because overmixing develops gluten and makes the results tough and dense. For other tasks, like combining a marinade or tossing a salad, thorough mixing is exactly what you want. Match the tool to the job: a whisk blends liquids smoothly, while a spatula folds gently without deflating an airy mixture.
Cooks mix constantly, and the key skill is knowing when to stop. For muffins, pancakes, and quick breads, mix only until the flour disappears, because overmixing develops gluten and makes the results tough and dense. For other tasks, like combining a marinade or tossing a salad, thorough mixing is exactly what you want. Match the tool to the job: a whisk blends liquids smoothly, while a spatula folds gently without deflating an airy mixture.