It is to take out any backed or frozen or set food from the mould in which it has been prepared. This can be a tricky and delicate operation needing practice and skill. Here are some tips to do it:

• To unmould aspics and jellies, plunge the base of the mould in hot water for a few seconds.
• For sponge cakes the tin should initially be lined with greaseproof paper or greased and dusted with flour; turn out immediately after removing from the oven.

• If the cake seems stuck in the tin, turn it over onto a plate and cover the base with a damp cloth, or place it immediately on a cold surface.
• For ices, dip the mould briefly into cold water and then into lukewarm water. Loosen ice with knife blade, place plate on top of mould and turn over quickly.