What is the cooking technique called when fats or juices are poured over food to keep it moist?

Basting is the cooking technique in which fats or juices are poured over food to keep it moist during the cooking process. This method is commonly used with meats, such as turkey or chicken, to help retain moisture and enhance flavor. The continual application of fats or flavorful liquids not only prevents the food from drying out but also promotes a more even cooking, as the heat is distributed more uniformly across the surface.

In contrast, stewing involves cooking food slowly in a small amount of liquid, which creates a different effect by allowing the food to simmer rather than being repeatedly coated in fat. Grilling is a method that cooks food over direct heat, often resulting in a crispy exterior, but it does not involve adding moisture during cooking. Roasting is an oven-based technique that often results in a browned exterior and a tender interior, yet it does not involve the active process of keeping food moist with added liquids during the cooking. Thus, basting specifically addresses the need for moisture retention through the application of fats or liquids, making it the correct answer.