The "food molecules".

When these molecules are heated, different reactions occur and the basic shape of the molecule changes, which is how food is cooked and why it usually changes texture, color, consistency, etc as it is heated.

            Proteins

A protein is a intertwined "chain" of organic molecules. When heated, these molecules "unfold", separate, and coagulate. protein molecule
As these molecules unfold, the texture of the food usually firms up. This is why when eggs are overcooked, they
become rubbery. Same goes for how hard and chewy a steak can get if overcooked.



Sugars           


sugar moleculeSugar molecules are less complex than protein molecules. When heated, these molecules undergo a transformation similar
to protein molecules except that they do not necessarily unfold but they do coagulate and release (thus also require) a
lot more energy than protein molecules. This changes the consistency of the food making it "stickier".
The food also gains a browner color. This is because the sugars caramelize as heat is applied. 


            Fats


These molecules are chains of organic molecules that do not mix with water and therefore do not evaporate. Fats melt when heated.fat molecule




Water


water All foods contain water. Water molecules evaporate when heated to a certain temperature. This dries out the food
and creates air pockets where the water molecules used to be. This is why you see steam when cooking foods, especially on
the stove top. The evaporated water molecules are escaping from the food.


Starches

When starch and liquid is heated, starch granules expand and thicken. This thickens the overall consistency of the starch and liquid starch
mixture because the expanded starch molecules occupy more and more space. This is why bread rises (and has air pockets)
as it bakes. The water molecules evaporate while starch molecules expand.





(Photo credits:
janielsantos3b.edublogs.org and sciencephotz