Preparing food in the oven is a common cooking method known as baking. Baking involves placing food in an oven and allowing it to cook at a certain temperature for a set amount of time. This method is often used for cakes, cookies, breads, and other baked goods. It can also be used to cook meats, vegetables, and other dishes. The term 'BAKE' is used to describe this process, which is why it was the answer to the crossword puzzle.