Waldorf Salad - The original Waldorf salad, created at New York's Waldorf Astoria Hotel in the 1890s, contained only apples, mayonnaise, and celery. It was later that walnuts became part of the dish.

Wassail - A drink of ale or wine flavored with sugar and spices, the term "wassail" is from the Norse "be in good health."
Recipe: Wassail Recipe

Water Bath - To place a container of food in a large pan of warm water, which surrounds the food with heat. The water bath is used to cook custards, sauces, and mousses, and may be used to keep food warm.

Wax Paper or Waxed Paper - A paper with a thin coating of wax on both sides. Wax paper is moistureproof and almost transparent, often used to cover foods and line baking pans.

Whey - The liquid which separates from the solids when cheese is made.

Whip - To beat ingredients with a whisk, electric mixer, or other utensil, a process which incorporates air into a mixture and changes the texture.

Whisk - (noun) A metal utensil made of looped wires joined at the handle, used to whip foods such as cream and egg whites. (verb) Whipping ingredients with a whisk.

Wok - A pan with a round bottom, the wok is used to stir-fry foods.

Worcestershire Sauce - A condiment used to season meat, gravy, sauces, and other various dishes. Worcestershire sauce is thin and dark with a piquant flavor, named for Worcester, England, where it was originally bottled. Ingredients usually include vinegar, tamarind, onions, molasses, garlic, soy sauce, lime, anchovies, and seasonings.