What cooking method involves cooking food in a small amount of fat over high heat for a short period?

The method that involves cooking food in a small amount of fat over high heat for a short period is frying. This cooking technique allows for the rapid transfer of heat to food, resulting in a crispy exterior while retaining moisture inside. Frying can be done in various types of fat, such as oil or butter, and is commonly used for items like vegetables, meats, and pastries, which develop enhanced flavors and textures during the process.

Roasting, on the other hand, typically involves cooking food in an oven with dry heat, often at lower temperatures for a longer duration. Braising combines both dry and moist heat, starting with searing the food and then cooking it slowly in liquid, which is quite different from the quick method of frying. Steaming uses water vapor to cook food, preserving its moisture and nutrients without the use of fat, further distinguishing it from frying.