What setting is "simmer" on an electric stove?

To simmer food on an electric stove, the temperature control dial or button should be set to medium-low. This keeps the temperature between 180 F and 200 F, which is just below the boiling point. Depending on the stove, the dials may be marked with numbers, lines or words.

As of 2014, there are three different types of cooktops on electric stoves: coil, induction and smoothtop. Since the controls and performance vary by model, consult the operation manual to learn the exact specifications for the stove. Simmering allows food to cook quickly without causing it to fall apart, become tough or burn.