Glossary of Cookery Terms

Abats

The French cookery term for offal.

Acidulated Water

Water with acid added, such as lemon juice or vinegar. This prevents discolouration of ingredients such as fruit and vegetable; use 1 tsp to 250ml.

Agar Agar

A vegetarian alternative to gelatine made with seaweed.

Aïoli

A form of garlic mayonnaise

Al dente

Pasta cooked to "the tooth" until tender but slightly firm to the bite.

Allspice

The berry of an evergreen tree native to South America and the West Indies. It is pickled before it ripens and has a flavor similar to a mix of cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg. Used in sweet dishes or savoury dishes. Can be bought whole or ground.

More about Allspice →

Angelica

A parsley-like plant with a sweet flavour. Its leaves can be added as a flavouring to salads or sweet custards. The stalks of young plants are crystallised to the bright green decoration for pastries and desserts which is the most commonly available form. The seed is used to flavour vermouth.

Anglaise (a la)

1) Cooking style for simple cooked dishes such as boiled vegetables. 2) A Method of cooking fish - deep frying in bread crumbs accompanied by tartar sauce 3) Sauce - fresh egg custard.

Anise

Aromatic, oval seeds. Anise is one of the oldest known spices. It is native to the Middle East, where it is used to flavor soups, stews and breads. Its most common use today is in drinks such as pastis, ouzo and anisette, and in the confectionery and medicinal trade. Mildly sweet and licorice in flavor. Use it in cakes, biscuits and baked products. The seeds can be ground and should be used quickly as the flavor dissipates rapidly.

Anise pepper

The dried reddish-brown berry of the Chinese variety of the small prickly ash tree. They are hollow and split open and sometimes have bits of stalk attached. Sometimes has loose black seeds still in the centre of the berries which should be discarded as they are bitter. The flavor is woody and aromatic with a sharp after taste. Widely used in Chinese cookery and is one of the ingredients of Chinese five spice powder. Crush or grind the berries and dry roast for more flavour. Used to flavour roast duck, good with chicken and meat.

Aniseed

Tiny oval seeds of the anise plant, with a pungent liquorice-like flavour. In Mediterranean countries it is used to flavour drinks such as pernod and ouzo. In central and Northern Europe, it is used in baking. In Southeast Asia and India it is used in curries. Sold as the whole seed.

Antipasto

Italian for "before meal" usually a selection of various cold vegetable, meat, fish or cheese.

Arame

An edible seaweed.

Artichoke

More about Artichoke →

Asafoetida

The Hindu alternative to garlic. A hard resin formed from the roots of plants native to Iran and India. It has a pungent unpleasant smell, which disappears when cooked and a delicate garlic flavor develops. Usually in a ground powder.

Asparagus

The shoots of an underground stem. Asparagus is seasonal in Europe and at its best from April to June - May being the prime month, it is also grown in North Africa, Israel, Thailand and the States. There are three main varieties of Asparagus green, white and wild. The bottom of the spears are usually snapped off or trimmed to remove any woodiness and sometimes the base is peeled if the skin is tough and stringy. Boil or steam for two or three minutes until tender but still firm. Often served with melted butter or hollandaise.

Cream of Asparagus Soup →

Au gratin

Describes a dish which is gratinated (browned) either in an oven or under a grill. The topping is usually made from breadcrumbs or cheese or a mixture including either or both.

Au jus

Roasted meat served with natural pan juices that accumulate during cooking.

Aubergine

Belongs to the tomato family and is native to tropical Asia. The most common variety is the large, oval-shaped and purple in color. White, mauve, and green varieties are also occasionally available. Miniature varieties are also available. The flesh is white and spongy, but discolours when cut. The flavour is mild and watery, and is best eaten cooked - boiled, baked, grilled or fried. Salting aubergines is common to remove their mild bitterness (sprinkle slices with salt, and let them drain in a colander for about 30 minutes, then rinse well and pat them dry).

Bakers cheese

is a term that covers all unripened soft cheeses. Low-medium fat soft cheeses with a tangy flavor are good for baking because it retains a moist texture. Other unripened cheeses include varieties such as Quark, fromage blanc and skimmed milk soft cheese which are good for reducing the fat content in recipes that require cream. Cottage cheese is a lumpier form of soft cheese with a mild fresh taste. Ricotta cheese is an Italian cheese that bakes well and adds a creamy nuttiness. Cream cheese adds a very creamy texture to dishes.

Bakery

The place where bread is manufactured and sold.

Baking powder

a raising agent used in making biscuits, breads and particularly cakes. It consists of bicarbonate of soda (alkaline), cream of tartar (tartaric acid) with a dried starch or flour. You can make your own by combining 15ml (1 tbsp) bicarbonate of soda with 30ml (2 tbsp) cream of tartar. Always measure carefully as too much or too little can upset the balance of the recipe and spoil the flavour.

Baklava

A Greek sweet consisting of very thin pastry (phyllo) layered with nuts (pistachio, almonds, walnuts) mixed with sugar and baked - then steeped in honey, lemon juice and rose water.

Balsamic vinegar

is made from grape juice, reduced and thickened before fermentation over several years in oak or chestnut barrels. The older and more expensive the vinegar, the greater the flavour and colour. It is dark brown in colour, like soy sauce, and has a spicy oaky sweet/sour flavour. Unlike other vinegars, balsamic should be regarded as a condiment or seasoning. Used in hot dishes towards the end of cooking to add flavour. It can be sprinkled over salads, soft fruits, cheeses, roasted vegetables and cold meats.

Bamboo shoots

The edible shoots of varieties of large grasses, common to eastern Asia, they are harvested just before they appear above ground. Bamboo shoots are sold fresh in Asian markets and require lengthy boiling. Canned, bamboo shoots are now widely available. Pale yellow in color and crisp in texture, with a mild sweetish flavor. Bamboo shoots are used in a variety of dishes including stews, soups, stir-fries and salads.

Banana

The fruit of the banana tree, originating in India and grown in tropical climates particularly in the West Indies, Africa and South America. There are two major types of banana, the fruit banana and the Plantain bananas. Plantain are green skinned with a firm pinkish flesh and are cooked as vegetables. Fruit bananas for export are cut when they have reached their full size but are still green. Some varieties are smaller, but all go from green to pale yellow and become flecked with brown as they ripen. The creamy flesh sweetens as ripening proceeds, and will discolour if cut and not used immediately after peeling. They will blacken if refrigerated. Very small 'apple bananas' and red-skinned bananas are much sweeter.

Barbados sugar

A sugar made from the first stage of crystallisation. Crude, brown and sticky, Barbados sugar is rather like crystallised treacle, and has a strong taste.

Barbary duck

a well-flavoured lean duck that is best cooked medium rare it is also called Muscovy duck.

Barbary fig

The fruit of the prickly pear cactus. Pinkish-yellow in color and usually covered in tiny, sharp hairs which can be very irritating to the skin. The flesh is sweet and seedy, these can be sieved out or eaten with the fruit. They taste vaguely like cucumber and can be eaten raw sprinkled with lime juice. They are a good addition to a fruit salad.

Barbecue

To cook over or in front of glowing coals usually charcoal - a form of grilling.

Barcelona nut

Grows in Europe especially in Spain, and in Asia and America, and have been eaten since the Bronze Age. Cultivated hazelnuts derive from the cob which grows wild in Britain. The filbert grows in Southern Europe. The shell is round, shiny and deep brown, with a slightly flat side. The nut inside is creamy coloured and quite dry. It is strongly flavoured and has the lowest fat content. Available whole, chopped or ground. Frequently used with chocolate in praline, but is good added to nut loaves and burgers for a savoury flavour.

Bard

To cover meat or poultry with a slice of fat. Barding protects the meat which might otherwise dry from the heat of the oven.

Barley

The earliest known cereal to be cultivated by man. Although it was used for bread-making before wheat it is low in gluten and thus makes poor bread. Pearl barley is used in cooking, it is barley that has been hulled and milled. Mainly added to soups, broths and stews, it is also boiled to produce a liquid for barley water. It is also made into flakes and flour. Barley has an individual taste that is slightly sweet and nutty. Requires soaking and boiling - about 45 minutes for pearl barley.

Basmati rice

is a scented tasting long-grain white rice with slim, pointed grains. Brown basmati is also available. Used particularly in pilafs and salads and in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking as an accompaniment or as part of a dish such as biriyani. Can be cooked braising or steaming by the absorption method using one measure of rice to two measures of stock or water. Bring to the boil, cover and cook in an oven or over low heat, undisturbed for 10-15 minutes until tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Basmati Rice Pilaf with Indian Spices and Raita →

Baste

To keep foods moist during cooking with a sauce, pan juice or wine.

Bastible

A heavy pot usually made of iron with three legs or hung from a hook and a flat base of Irish origin used to cook over open fires. Bastibles can be used to bake in by placing the lid filled with hot embers on top of it. It was also used to slow cook various meat and poultry dishes.

Bat

To flatten meat or fish with a cutlet bat or other suitable implement.

Bean sprouts

Most beans can be used to produce bean sprouts, usually mung beans, green or brown lentils, aduki beans and soya beans are used. Taking between two and five days to germinate. They are usually added to salads and stir-fries.

Beat

To mix ingredients rapidly so that air is incorporated, resulting in a smooth mixture.

Béchamel

A milk based sauce thickened by a white roux, usually flavoured with a studded onion and nutmeg.

Béchamel Sauce →Sauces Made from Béchamel →

Beef dripping

The fat and juices left after roasting a joint of beef which set on cooling and separate into jelly beneath and fat on top. Traditionally spread on bread and sprinkled with salt.

Beetroot

a root vegetable, usually red-purple in colour, but white and golden varieties are also available. Shaped like small globes with bushy green leaves, which are also edible and taste like spinach. Beetroot has an earthy, mildly nutty flavour. Cook fresh beetroot whole in boiling water, without damaging the skin to avoid the colour leaching out during cooking. Once cooked, peel away the skin. Serve hot with soured cream and black pepper, or cool and shred or grate into salads. It is delicious with fresh orange. Can be pickled in vinegar.

Belgian endive

Related to the dandelion family. Consists of forced heads of pointed leaves which are white with green or yellow tips, and have a characteristically bittersweet taste. Choose yellow tips as these are sweeter. They require simple trimming at the base before use. Their crisp texture makes them good in salads, and are delicious served with orange segments and juice as a refreshing starter. Can be baked as a gratin, wrapped in ham and baked in cheese sauce.

Beurre Manié

Kneaded butter and plain flour, whisked in small pieces into a sauce at the end of cooking. 30g beurre manié to 250ml liquid.

Bicarbonate of soda

is an alkaline raising agent used in recipes that contain an acid ingredient such as buttermilk or lemon juice - ideal for soda bread. It is one of the ingredients of baking powder. It can be mixed with cream of tartar to produce a darkening effect in recipes containing chocolate, or in ginger cakes. Bicarbonate of soda can also help neutralise strong fruit acids like those in rhubarb or blackcurrants, alleviating the sour flavour.

Bird eye chilli

A small, very hot chilli.

More about Bird eye chilli →

Bismarck herrings

Flat fillets of herring cured in a mixture of onions and spiced vinegar.

Bitters

alcohol flavored with bitter plants and plant products. Bitters are widely used in liqueurs and can be added to fruit salads and sauces. Angostura bitters is one of the best known and is famous in drinks such as Pink Gin.

Blachan

A firm dark brown paste made of matured shrimp that is widely used in Southeast Asian cookery. Very strong smelling it is used as a flavouring and can be bought in some delicatessen and oriental grocers. It needs to be warmed before it is soft enough to use.

Black bean

It is a small black bean that comes from a yellow pod. It has a meaty, mushroomy flavour, and is used in many South and Central American dishes. Frijoles negros is a well known Mexican dish of fried black beans, and they are well used in many soups and stews. These dried beans need soaking prior to cooking then about 50 minutes in simmering water, and produce a thick black sauce.

Black Bean Soup →

Black bean sauce

It is commercially prepared and made from fermented soya beans, used to flavour many Asian dishes. Some varieties are thick and contain chopped beans; others are smooth and thin. The flavour is salty, spicy and strong, so use sparingly. Once opened, the bottle or jar should be sealed and stored in the fridge. If unavailable as a sauce, you could use plain salted black beans that are salted, spiced and fermented soya beans. These also have a strong, powerful flavour.

Black bean sauce →

Black lumpfish caviar

Seasoned roe (eggs) taken from the north Atlantic black lumpfish before it spawns. Usually served as a starter, it is a cheaper alternative to the traditional caviar from the sturgeon.

Black salsify

The name means black serpent. A long, black root vegetable very similar to salsify. It is related to the daisy family and originates from Spain. The roots should be washed and scraped before cooking. It can be eaten raw in salads and makes an interesting addition added to other grated roots. It can also be boiled and served tossed in butter. The flavour is delicate, said to be like oysters, so it shouldn't be cooked with strong flavours. Best flavoured simply with chopped fresh herbs.

Black treacle

A thick, sticky, dark liquid that is a by-product of the sugar refining process. It is mostly used in cake and biscuit making.

Blackberry

It looks like a black raspberry and has a juicy texture, with many seeds, and a fragrant delicate flavour. Similar to dewberries that grow in less prickly bushes and have a blue bloom like that of plums. Cultivated varieties of blackberry are large, juicy and often seedless, and the flavour is watery and indistinct. Wild blackberries that grow in the hedgerows are rarer but worth hunting out. Always wash them well and avoid those that grow near to the ground. Very tasty when stewed with apple or pear, and goes well with soft, fresh goats' cheese.

Blackcurrant

A close relative of the redcurrant, it grows well in north Europe and Asia. Small shiny black berries which have an intense flavour, but too sour to eat raw. Perfect sweetened and stewed, and then used to fill pies and puddings, and are perfect for jam making. A rich source of vitamin C. In France, blackcurrants are used to make the alcoholic cordial creme de cassis, which can be spooned over ice cream and added to chilled cooked blackcurrants.

Black-eyed bean

There are many varieties but the most familiar are small and kidney-shaped, creamy in colour and have a distinctive black spot. Good earthy, nutty flavour. Retains its texture well once cooked. Native to Africa, but also popular in South America, United States and India. Needs to be pre-soaked and then cooked for about 40 minutes. Perfect for stews, soups, and casseroles and once cold are good in salads.

Blancmange

Meaning White Food in French a popular dessert since the middle ages when it was often made with a white meat jelly, nowadays usually a sort of jellied almond cream.

Blend

To combine ingredients until a desired consistency is reached, usually until smooth.

Blood pudding

Traditional sausage made from pig's blood mixed with spices, onion, cereal and salt. They are rich and dark in flavour and colour, although commercial black puddings are dyed black. They are ready cooked, but are intended to be eaten sliced and fried, and are often included as part of a mixed grill or a full English breakfast. They only keep a few days in the fridge, but they can be frozen. Try serving with some pan cooked apple or pear to accompany and soften the flavour.

Blood sausage

a traditional sausage made from pigs' blood mixed with spices, cereal, onion and salt. Rich and dark in flavour and colour, although commercial black puddings are dyed black. They are ready cooked, but are intended to be eaten sliced and fried, and are often included as part of a mixed grill or a full English breakfast. They only keep a few days in the fridge, but can be frozen. Try serving with some pan-cooked apple or pear to accompany and soften the flavour.

Blue Corn

Simply a variety of flint corn with a dark bluish to red color that when ground produces a blue color flour. Blue corn is grown predominantly in the Southwestern part of the United States. It has been a staple food of the Pueblo Indians dating back centuries. The corn has a coarser texture and a nuttier flavor than other varieties of corn used for flour. Far less of this corn is commercially harvested for a variety of reasons. The corn is simply not as hardy as 'dent' corn varieties. It frequently produces multiple stalks that fall over and cause problems with harvesting equipment and in general produces a lower yield. The primary use for blue corn is to produce blue corn tortillas. Tortillas made from blue corn flour are frequently denser than a white corn tortilla, but I find that it has more flavor. It is also used to produce Nixtamal which in turn is used for tamales, tortillas, or pozole.

Blueberry

small blue-black berries native fruit to Northern America. They have a sweet, mildly spicy flavour and can be eaten raw or are good in fruit salads or with cheeses. They are good to use whole in cakes and muffins because they retain their shape well. Also good stewed and flavoured with lemon, ginger or cinnamon. Blueberries freeze well, and retain their shape after defrosting.

Bocconcini di mozzarella

Small balls of mozzarella cheese.

Boil

To heat water or other liquids to 100°C (212°F). When water boils the surface is covered with bubbles see Boiling Page.

Bok choi

Aka pak choi, mustard greens and Chinese white cabbage, this has broad, juicy white stems, with wide, mildly mustard-flavoured green leaves. Similar to Swiss chard (they can substituted for each other) the stems and leaves are best cooked separately, and the leaves require only brief cooking. Both can be added to stir-fries, noodle dishes or served as a braised side dish. Try shredding very finely and deep-frying until crisp. Drain and serve sprinkled with salt and sugar.

Boletus

A wild mushroom that can be recognised by the spore-bearing tubes on the underneath of its cap. The best known species is the cep or porcini. Dried cep mushrooms are probably the most commonly used form, although fresh are better if you can get them. They are widely available from Italian delicatessens and large supermarkets, usually in small bags, ready sliced. Once soaked they will give an earthy flavour and meaty texture to a dish; they require more seasoning than the fresh and sometimes adding a touch of sweetness brings out their flavour. Always add the soaking liquid to the stock as well for more flavour but strain through kitchen paper to remove grit. Add to soups and casseroles; also good stirred into a risotto or cooked pasta.

Bologna

A smooth mild Italian sausage variety.

Borage flowers

Bright blue flowers of the borage plant, which can be crystallised for decoration.

Borage leaves

Cucumber-flavoured leaves of the borage plant, which can be cooked like spinach.

Borecole

They are cabbages which do not heart. Scottish kale is perhaps the most famous as it has curly dark green leaves. It is rich in calcium and the B vitamins. The cabbagey flavour is very strong and not to everyone's taste. The young leaves are the best and should be well washed to remove any grit. Tough stems should be removed, and then place in boiling water and cooked until tender. Drain well and toss in butter. It is also good topped with crispy bacon and seasoned with nutmeg.

Borlotti bean

similar to a kidney bean, they are speckled brown or brown all over and make an attractive addition to a mixed bean salad. After soaking, they will take about 50 minutes to cook in simmering water. Can replace kidney beans in a dish or vice versa. They hold their shape well in cooking, and have a lovely floury texture and taste. Available dried and more conveniently in cans.

Bortsch

an Eastern soup of various styles from broth to consomme, flavored with beetroot and other vegetables and often finished with sour cream. It can have main ingredients as diverse as fish or duck!

Boudin blanc

A white French charcuterie sausage. A delicately flavoured creamy mixture about 15cm (6 inches) long made from pork and chicken, milk or cream, eggs, cereal, onion and light spices. They are ready-poached, but are usually fried in butter or grilled. English white pudding is a poor substitute.

Boudin noir

A black French charcuterie sausage. It contains pig's blood and the French spice mix quatre epices, and has a much stronger flavour than the white variety (boudin blanc). It is more refined in flavour than English black pudding.

Bouillon

the French word for Broth a liquid in which any bones, meat, poultry, fish or vegetables have been boiled. It is concentrated, flavoured with herbs and spices and salted to make a soup. It is served cloudy, not clarified. Used in recipes when a stronger flavour is required - simple stock is less flavoured, watery and never substantial enough to serve as a dish on its own. Bouillon powder and granules are available from supermarkets and make a suitable substitute when time is short.

Bouquet Garni

A faggot of herbs either tied in muslin or inside leek leaves containing thyme, parsley and bay leaves. Black peppercorns are sometimes included. B.G.'s are used to flavour soups, sauces and stews.

Braise

A slow, moist heat cooking method for cooking large cuts of meat, poultry, game or vegetables using a small amount of liquid and a tight-fitting lid. Used for less tender cuts see Braising Topic.

Bramble

Looks like a black raspberry and has a juicy texture, with many seeds, and a fragrant delicate flavour. Similar to dewberries which grow in less prickly bushes and have a blue bloom like that of plums. Cultivated varieties of blackberry are large, juicy and often seedless, and the flavour is watery and indistinct. Wild blackberries that grow in the hedgerows are rarer but worth hunting out. Always wash them well and avoid those which grow near to the ground. Very tasty when stewed with apple or pear, and they go well with soft, fresh goat's cheese.

Bramble jelly

A jam-like spread made from blackberries which has a dark colour but is completely clear and smooth. Sweet to the taste and used on breads and toast, or in yogurt.

Bran

Outer layer of cereal grains, left in wholemeal flour. Also used for making high-fibre breakfast cereals.

Brandy snaps

Sticky biscuit rolls traditionally made from syrup, ginger, flour and butter. Cooked in small rounds for a few minutes in a moderate oven, they are rolled round the handle of a wooden spoon while warm. They can be formed into basket shapes to make brandy snap baskets.

Brat(t) Pan

A large tilting pan with lid, which can be used to shallow fry, deepfry, stew, braise and boil.

Brazil nut

It is the seed of a giant tree that grows wild in the tropical South American jungle. The nuts grow packed together like the segments of an orange inside a large, spherical woody fruit. The shell of a Brazil nut is hard and greyish brown, the nut inside is creamy in colour and creamy and delicate in taste. It is rich in fat, thiamine and magnesium. These nuts are not widely used in cooking, but are a traditional addition to the fruit bowl at Christmas. They are very tasty eaten raw in muesli, or chopped as part of a nut loaf, or rich fruitcake.

Breadcrumbs

Crustless white or brown bread reduced to granules with a cheese grater, in a blender or food processor, or worked through a sieve. Fresh breadcrumbs are used in stuffings and to thicken sauces; dry breadcrumbs are used for coating food, or sprinkled onto dishes to add colour and crunch.

Bresaola

A dried tenderloin of beef of Italian origin which is aged for about two months. It is served raw with olive oil, lemon juice and parsley as an hors d'oeuvre.

Brine

A salt solution used to preserve meat, fish and vegetables. Brine sometimes also contains saltpetre, sugar and flavourings. Brine usually contains about 18% salt. see Brine recipe

Brioche

A rich bread made with a high proportion of eggs and butter, traditionally baked in a distinctive fluted (wavy) mould. It is often eaten warm and sometimes filled.

Brioche Buns →

Broad bean

It has been cultivated in Europe and Asia since the Stone Age. Very young green pods can be eaten whole, simply top and tail. Young bright green shelled beans can be eaten raw in salads and have a sweet flavour. Slightly older broad beans are greyer in colour and tougher in texture, they are best shelled and boiled and served with butter and chopped parsley. Older beans are dried and used in soups and stews.

Broccoli

It is a type of cauliflower which may be in the form of a compact head or individual sprouts. Sometimes described as the poor man's asparagus. It has a mild cabbage-like flavour, and varieties can be dark green or purple. To prepare, remove the toughest part of the stems and pare the stems down so they will cook in the same time as the more tender heads. The stems are edible and can be sliced thinly and cooked along with the heads if liked. Good in stir-fries or with cheese sauce.

Broil

A quick, dry heat cooking method done in the oven using the broiler setting. Used for more tender cuts. Less tender cuts can be used if marinated.

Broiler Pan

A rectangular pan with a rack, sometimes included in an oven.

Broth

The unclarified liquid in which meat or vegetables have been cooked, it is used for making soups and sauces. Also style of soup which has meat and/or vegetables cooked in a clear stock. Minestrone is a broth style soup. see Stock.

Chicken Broth →Scotch Broth →

Brown

To cook food quickly in a preheated oven, broiler, or hot skillet to "brown" the outside and seal in the juices.

Brown mushroom

also called chestnut, they are a variety of cultivated mushroom and can vary in size. They resemble the open-cup mushrooms in shape, although the cap is browner and they are firmer in texture. Nutty and slightly earthy in flavor; when raw it is sour. They hold their shape well in prolonged cooking and are good in stews or braises.

Brown rice

is rice with just the inedible outer husk removed. There are many varieties of brown rice which has a higher fibre content than white, polished varieties. Brown basmati, short grain and long grain are available as well as brown rice flakes and brown rice flour. Brown rice has a nutty flavour and chewier texture and takes longer to cook than white rice.

Brunoise

A small dice of vegetables 2mm x 2mm (1/12 inch).

Brussels sprouts

a miniature relation of green cabbage said to originate from Brussels in the thirteenth century. The smaller, firm sprouts, which are sweetest. Prepare by trimming outer leaves and if desired cut a cross in the base before boiling in a little salted water for 3-5 minutes, depending on their size. A traditional Christmas and winter vegetable served with chestnuts and tossed in nutmeg and butter. Can be shredded and deep fried or added to stir-fries, or make a soup and blended with cream and blue cheese.

Brussels Sprouts with Bacon →

Bucatini

is a very small type of macaroni or tube-shaped pasta.

Buckwheat

A cereal plant originating from the orient its triangular shaped seeds resemble beechnuts of a plant related to rhubarb. It is also known as Saracen corn. It can be bought as grains roasted or unroasted, or as a milled flour. Roasted buckwheat can be boiled for 10 minutes and served in place of rice, traditionally with Bortsch or Stroganov. The flour is used in pancakes or galettes, and gives a fragrant nuttiness to the mixture.

Bulgur

or Bulgar wheat is often described as cracked wheat, and also called burghul or pourgouri. It is cracked by boiling, and is a staple in the Middle East, where it is the base for tabbouleh and kibbeh. It's easy to prepare: soak for 30 minutes and then drain and either gently fry with flavourings for 5 minutes until hot or bake in a moderate oven with a little oil for 15-20 minutes until light and soft. It has a nutty, wheaty flavour and can be served hot or cold in salads. It's good for binding and can be used in stuffings or with minced meat.

Butter

an ancient way of preserving milk. It is rendered to a form of pure animal fat and will keep for several weeks. The milk of most mammals (except camels) can be used to make butter by churning it until it goes thick and then grainy, forming flecks of butter. It is strained and washed to remove the sour buttermilk, and then salted or left plain. Salted butter keeps better. The flavour of different varieties of butter relies on the pastures where the cows graze; butter from Normandy and the Alps produce a fine product with a smooth, clean, fresh taste.

Butterfly

To split food down the center without cutting all the way through so two pieces can be opened like butterfly wings.

Cajun seasoning

A dried mixture of Cajun spices found in the spice section of the grocery store.

Capocollo

A specialty of the Parma region of Italy, capocollo is a sausage made from pork shoulder and flavoured with sweet red peppers. It is pressed (rather than chopped), put into casings, and air dried.

Capon

The term for a castrated chicken that is fed a special diet until it is slaughtered at the age of 6 to 9 months.

Caramelize

To sprinkle food with a small amount of sugar and saute or grill until browned. To heat sugar until it forms a caramel.

Caraway

The seed of a member of the parsley family with warm aniseedy undertones.

More about Caraway →

Cardamon

the dried unripened fruit of a plant from the ginger family, the pods are perfumed and rich in flavour.

More about Cardamon →

Carve

To slice meat across the grain for serving.

Carving guide →Carving knives →

Cep

The edible boletus mushroom with a large bulbous stalk. Always better when young can be eaten raw in salads cut into thin slices but are great cooked in stews, omelettes or cooked in a white sauce. Dried they add a distinctive flavour to sauces. In Italy they are known as porcini.

Chiffonade

finely shredded leaf vegetables or herbs.

Chitterlings

The small intestines of animals, usually pigs. They are cleaned, simmered, then served with a sauce or used as a sausage casing. Chitterlings are also added to soups or battered and fried.

Chop

To cut food into pieces. Can range from small to large in size.

Chorizo

A spicy, highly seasoned, coarsely ground pork sausage flavored with garlic, chili, and other spices. Widely used in Mexican and Spanish cooking.

Choux Paste

A pastry made by boiling water or milk and butter, adding flour, beating in eggs. Choux Pastry is used to make profiteroles, eclairs and Paris Brest. see Recipe

Chutney

A sauce or relish containing fruits, spices and herbs.

Cinnamon

A spice made from the curled inner bark of a species of laurel

More about Cinnamon →

Clarified butter

To heat butter until melted and milk solids rise to the top. Skim off milk solids, or use gravy separator before using butter for sautéing. This helps keep butter from burning.

Clove

One small section of a segmented bulb, such as garlic. Also a spice.

More about Clove →

Core

To remove the inedible center portion of a fruit or vegetable.

Coriander

A delicately flavoured herb with a spicy seed

More about Coriander →

Corn

Corn (maize) terms from the old glossary page, each on its own card:

• Blue Corn
• Corn Husks
• Flint Corn
• Hominy
• Maize
• Masa
• Masa Harina
• Nixtamal (nixtamalado)
• Red Corn

Corn Husks

The outside sheath that covers a cob of corn. The husks can be used fresh or dried. Normally the dried husks are soaked and used to wrap foods such as tamales.

Coulis

A liquid purée of fruit, vegetables or seafood. Coulis can be used as sauce or are added to soups and sauces to give body and flavour. They are named after a couloir which is a type of funnel.

Apricot Roulade apricot coulis →

Courgettes

baby marrows are available in many varieties, shapes and sizes. The colour varies from green to yellow and the shape from long and thin to spherical. The flavour is watery and earthy. The tenderest, sweetest courgettes are those about 10-15cm (4-5 inches) long. Courgettes are prepared by slicing off the top and end, then either leaving whole for roasting or stuffing, slicing for stir fries and soups, dicing or making matchsticks for casseroles. They can be grated or julienned and tossed in lemon juice and served raw as a salad. Try steaming in slices and tossed in butter with chopped mint.

Couscous

a pasta made from durum wheat which resembles grain. The finished dish is served with a tagine and/or harissa: see also recipe for Parsnip cous cous

Mixed pepper couscous →

Crépine

A thin membrane veined with fat that encloses the stomach of animals - used to make crépinettes. Also known as cawl or toilette, it is used to hold together ingredients in certain dishes such as terrines, faggots, stuffed cabbage leaves.

Crosne

or Chinese or Japanese artichoke also known as chorogi is a spiral shaped tuber that looks a bit like giant caterpillars, though they taste similar to Jerusalem artichokes. Prepare by rubbing with coarse salt to remove the skin or cook unpeeled. They're popular in France and can sometimes be obtained from oriental and Asian markets.

Crouton

Hard toasted or fried pieces of bread used to garnish.

Crudités

Raw vegetables and or fruits served as an appetiser. These are generally cut into sticks or batons or thinly sliced and served with dips or cold sauces. Carrots, celery, peppers, red cabbage, mushrooms, fennel, fresh broad beans, radishes, slices of avocado, or tomatoes amongst others can be used.

Cube

To cut food into uniform 1cm (half-inch) squares.

Cumin

Also known as jeera, cumin is the seed of a plant similar to cow parsley and a distinctive spicy warm rather than hot flavor

More about Cumin →

Cure

To preserve meat by either smoking, drying, pickling or salting.

Darne

A slice or steak of a round fish cut through the bone.

Fish cuts: darne →

Deep Fry

To cook food covered in fat. See Deep Frying topic

Deglaze

To dissolve the small particles of sautéed meat remaining in a pan by adding a liquid and heating. Used as base for sauces.

Degrease

To remove the fat from the surface of a liquid

Dice

To cut into equal sized cubes. The smallest vegetable dice is known as brunoise 2mm (1/12inch) the largest macédoine 1/2 cm (1/4 inch).

Dilute

To make a sauce or stock weaker by adding more liquid.

Dredge

To coat with a dry mixture such as flour, bread or cracker crumbs.

Dried & Roasted Soybeans

Soybeans can be dried and roasted and used as a snack food. These can be very difficult to digest.

Drizzle

To pour liquid over the surface of food in a fine stream.

Dry heat cooking

Cooking without the addition of liquid. Examples include grilling, broiling and panfrying. Used for tender cuts or less tender cuts that have been marinated.

Dutch oven

A heavy pot with a tight-fitting cover.

Pots & pans guide →

Edamame

The Japanese name for fresh soybeans. The soybeans (either fresh or frozen) are boiled in their pods with salt then chilled and served as an appetizer.

Enoki mushroom

A member of the mushroom family. Looks like cooked spaghetti topped with tiny button caps.

Espagnole

A basic brown sauce made from a brown stock to which a brown roux , a mirepoix and tomato purée are added.

Espagnole →

Faggot

A ball of coarsely minced liver and pork mixed with herbs, onion and breadcrumbs usually wrapped in crepine. Typically served in a thickened gravy with onions and mushy peas! There are many regional variations on the recipe, especially in the U.K. see Recipe.

Farce

The French term for stuffing/forcemeat.

Fécule

Fine potato flour.

Fenugreek

is an aromatic Mediterranean plant whose seed is used in the west mainly as part of curry powder and which is traditionally used in Africa to fatten women.

Fillet

To cut meat away from the bone. see also Filleting knives

Filleting fish →

Flambé

To pour brandy or liqueur over food, warm and ignite.

Flint Corn

Called flint because of its dense, hard exterior. This is also referred to as Indian corn. Both red and blue corn, as well as popping corn are types of flint corn. This type of corn is primarily used for animal food.

Fold

To combine a light mixture with a heavier one without stirring or beating, but gently lifting from underneath with a rubber spatula or metal spoon by using an over-and-over motion.

Fool

A dessert made of fruit purée which is sieved, sweetened and chilled, shortly before serving double its volume of whipped cream is folded into it.

Forcemeat

more commonly called stuffing. A mixture of raw or cooked ingredients, chopped or minced or ground, used to stuff eggs, fish, poultry, game, meat vegetables or pasta. The three main types of forcemeat are those made with meat, game or poultry, those made with fish, those made with vegetables.

Frangipane

a pastry cream or sponge like filling made with ground almonds or macaroons. Used in Bakewell and other tarts.

Galantine

A dish made with poultry, game, pork, veal or rabbit mixed with forcemeat and pressed into symmetrical shape. They are cooked in aspic stock and then glazed with aspic. Usually served as an entrée.

Galette

A flat round cake of variable size. Galettes can be made of pastry, cereals, potatoes, nuts, marzipan, shortbread etc.

Game

All wild animals and birds that are hunted. Game is generally divided into furred and feathered categories. Hunting is usually confined to certain seasons that allow the animals to breed and prevent extinction.

Preparing game →Game Pie →

Ganache

A flavoured cream used to fill and decorate cakes or sweets, made with chocolate, butter and fresh cream.

Ghee

A clarified fat originally made from buffalo milk. Ghee is commonly used in Indian cookery.

Ginger

the underground root or rhizome of an iris like plant. Ginger has a warm sweet aroma and a hot biting flavour

More about Ginger →

Glaze

A mixture brushed on food which adds flavor and gives a glossy appearance.

Gluten

A protein in flour that develops elasticity when kneaded, this is desirable in bread as it helps trap the carbon dioxide in the dough and enables it to rise with less risk of collapsing. Strong flour is high in gluten.

Goat

Goat meat has been eaten in many countries for centuries, and is gaining popularity in the U.S. and Europe. Most goat meat comes from kids--goats under 6 months old. Kid meat is as tender and delicate as lamb see Abercrombie's Goat Page.

Goulash

a beef stew or soup of Hungarian origin made with paprika and onions. Named after the keepers of the Magyar oxen - Gulyas. Nowadays Goulash is often prepared with a roux based thickening but this is probably an Austrian or French variant. Usually served with potatoes or small quenelles of egg pasta csipetke or Spätzle. see Recipe

Bean Goulash →

Grate

To cut food into small pieces by rubbing against the sharp teeth of a grating tool.

Gravy

the diluted juices from a roast joint of meat, poultry or game. It is classically served unthickened and known as jus rôti, but many prefer the thickened varieties. See how to make gravy.

Gravy from the Roast →

Grill

A quick, dry heat cooking method over charcoal, wood or gas flames. Used for more tender cuts. Less tender cuts can be used if marinated.

Grouse

A small, low-fat game bird. Quality birds should have no odor.

Guinea Fowl

A relative to the chicken and partridge, the female (hen) makes better eating than the male. The taste has been described as "pleasantly gamey." Guinea fowl were raised and eaten by the Greeks and Romans.

Guinea Fowl with Asparagus →

Ham

A hind leg of pork/hog cured in various ways. The leg is cut from the carcase and brined separately. Ham may be cooked, raw or smoked. The french term Jambon refers to ham and also to a leg of fresh pork. see also Ham pictures. see also cooking a Ham

Boiled Ham →

Harissa

A very hot pepper sauce from North Africa, made from a purée of olive oil, chilli, garlic, coriander, caraway or cumin and several other spices. see Recipe

Herb mincer or roller

A device for chopping up herbs, has the same effect as a Mezzaluna on a small scale.

Mezzaluna →

Hoisin sauce

An Oriental sauce used in cooking.

Hominy

Essentially it is the same as nixtamal. Dried field corn that has had the hull and germ removed. The fresh version bears little resemblance to the canned product. Hominy is used to make traditional Mexican dishes such as Pozole (soup). It can also be dried and ground and used for hominy grits.

Hors d'oeuvres

An appetiser or first course dish - see antipasto.

Hummus or Hoummos

a dish made from chick peas and tahini usually flavoured with garlic, lemon juice and olive oil served with pita bread, salads or crudités as a starter or snack. see also Hummus Recipe

Italian seasoning

A dried mixture of Italian herbs. Can be found in the spice section of the grocery store.

Jambalaya

A spicy rice speciality of New Orleans - originating from Paella - classically made with rice, chicken and ham but other ingredients such as sausage, peppers, tomatoes, prawns and oyster can be added.

Chicken and Chorizo Jambalaya →

Jambon

The French term for Ham or leg of pork.

Julienne

To cut fruits, vegetables or meats into match-like strips.

Kebab

Cubes of meat, fish, shellfish or vegetables cooked on a skewer.

Chicken Kebabs →

Kidney

Kidneys are a pair of glandular organs in the abdominal cavities of mammals and reptiles. Calf's and lamb's kidneys are amongst the most delicate. Pig's kidneys are larger and coarser. To prepare remove the outer membrane and the central core. Usually sautéed or grilled.

Kielbasa

A highly seasoned smoked sausage of Polish origin made from pork and (sometimes) beef. It is flavored with garlic and other spices. Can be served cold or hot.

Kimchee

is a spicy-hot, extraordinarily pungent condiment that is served at almost every Korean meal. It's made of fermented vegetables — such as cabbage or turnips — that have been pickled before being stored in tightly sealed pots or jars and buried in the ground.

Knackwurst

A German smoked cooked sausage made from beef and/or pork and saltpetre to give it its pinkish colour. It is shorter and larger in diameter than a frankfurter and is highly seasoned with garlic. Eaten grilled or poached.

Lard

Melted down pork fat used for cooking. Lard is a solid white fat with a distinctive flavour and a high smoking point.

Larding

Threading thin strips of fat, usually pork, into a large joint of meat to keep them from drying out during cooking. A larding needle is usually used. The fat should be chilled to make it firm and can be seasoned or sprinkled with parsley.

Laverbread

is a Welsh method of preparing and serving purple seaweed Porphyra umbilicalis or Porphyra laciniata also known as nori this a brown looking and fine and silky it was traditionally served mixed with a little oatmeal and fried in bacon or fat. Often dried first then soaked and washed thoroughly, wrung dry, then boiled in seawater for several hours, sometimes with a little vinegar. It is then drained and minced, it is black in appearance. The seaweed is often imported dried from Scotland. It can be mixed with olive oil, lemon juice and black pepper and served on toast or added to chicken stock and liquidised. There are various versions of laver sauce, where the laver bread is heated in butter with a squeeze of Seville orange or added to bechamel and served with lamb.

Liaison

A mixture of egg yolks and cream added to a soup or sauce to enrich and thicken it at the end of cooking. Velouté derives its name from the velvety finish that a liaison imparts to it.

Lychee

can be spelled litchi - a Chinese fruit also grown in the far east, the US and West Indies - The knobbly shell can be easily removed as can the stone. The flesh is white with a pinkish tinge when ripe. Also available tinned or in an overripe form when they turn black. Can be served on their own, in fruit salad, with cream or ice-cream or as part of a meat and fish dish. The flavour is perfumed and slightly musky.

Macédoine

A cut of vegetables 1/2cm (1/4 inch) dice or a mixture of fruit or vegetables.

Maize

From the American Native Indian word, mahiz. This is the term the Europeans gave "corn".

Marinade

A mixture used to enhance the flavor and/or tenderness of food. See for example Recipe

Marinate

To let meat or vegetables stand in a flavored liquid, usually acidic, for several hours and in some cases days - to add flavor or to tenderize.

Masa

Masa is the Mexican word for "dough". It refers to the corn dough used to make tortillas, tamales, as well as other traditional Mexican dishes.

Masa Harina

Is "dough flour". The fresh masa is force-dried and ground into a fine powder. It may then be reconstituted with water or other liquids and used to make tortillas.

Meat thermometer

An instrument used to read the internal temperature of meat.

Merguez

A thin type of sausage made from beef and mutton, its red colour comes from red pepper seasoning. North African or Spanish in origin it can be fried or grilled and is commonly served with couscous.

Mignonette

Coarsely ground pepper.

Mince

To cut or chop in very fine pieces usually through a mincing machine. Sometimes known as ground meat.

Mirepoix

A dice of carrots, onions and celery used to improve the flavour of sauces, as a garnish and in braised and pot roasted dishes. Named after the Duc de Lévis-Mirepoix, created by his chef!

Miroton

A sliced cooked meat dish usually made from boiled beef with sliced onions often in a sauce.

Mise en place

The French term for pre-preparation in the Restaurant or the Kitchen - where it means the setting out the ingredients and equipment required for the preparation of dishes on the menu.

Miso

Japanese condiment made from a paste of fermented soya beans with rice, barley, or wheat grains and salt

Mocha

A variety of strong coffee with a distinctive bitter musky aroma - a variety of Arabica

Moist heat cooking

Adding liquid during preparation to create steam. Improves tenderness of less tender cuts. Examples include braising and stewing.

Mortadella

A mild smoked sausage from Bologna, Italy, the city that brought us "bologna" sausage. Made from finely ground beef, pork, cubes of pork fat, and seasonings. Mortadella often has Pistachio nuts or Whole Peppercorns added.

Nixtamal (nixtamalado)

Dried maize which has been lime treated and partially cooked. Available in Mexican grocery stores. This can be used to grind and make tamales or tortillas, or used for hominy or pozole.

Offal

The general term for parts of an animal other than Meat (muscle tissue). This includes internal edible parts of animals especially organs and glands and also extremities such as feet, head, tongue and tripe. see Recipes: Faggots, Braised Liver & Onions, Hot Salad of Chicken Livers, Duck Liver & Chilli Salad

Olives

are the small oval fruit of the olive tree. The fruit ripens from green to black; the flesh encloses an oval stone and is the source of olive oil - the fruit stoned or stuffed is used as an appetiser and as a flavouring and ingredient in dishes. Originating in the East the Olive was consumed by both the ancient Egyptians and Greeks and was spread in its cultivation to all Mediterranean regions by the Romans. More recently the low level of saturated fat has made the olive more popular as a healthy and tastier alternative to other vegetable oils. There are two basic types of olive green and black (ripe). Green olives are harvested before they ripen and treated with an alkali to reduce the bitterness then rinsed and pickled in brine. Black Olives are harvested when fully ripe and are not treated with alkali but are still pickled in brine. Varieties are well illustrated on Chef's Thesaurus

Olives guide →

Orzo

A form of pasta which is sometimes called "barley" it resembles rice and comes in various sizes grains. More associated with Greek cookery than Italian. Cook in boiling salted water or stock.

Paella

A traditional Spanish rice dish made with saffron, chicken, shellfish and vegetables. It is prepared in a paellera from which it derives its name. Various other ingredients are used to garnish many local varieties of the dish. see recipe

Pan broil

A quick, dry heat cooking method using a pan on a stovetop. No oil is used and the pan is uncovered. Used for thinner cuts.

Pan fry

A quick, dry heat cooking method using a pan with a small amount of oil. No lid is used. Used for thinner cuts. Also called sautéing.

Panada

A paste used to bind and thicken. Made from flour (choux paste), frangipane, bread, potato, or rice, panadas are used in forcemeats, terrines and quenelles.

Pancetta

An Italian cured pork with spices which is rolled. Pancetta can be eaten raw and is often used as a flavouring agent in sauces, pasta fillings, roasts and vegetables.

Parboil

To partially cook food in boiling water before completely cooking by some other process.

Pare

To cut off the outer covering of a fruit or vegetable with a vegetable peeler.

Paring knives →

Paris Brest

A ring of choux pastry filled with a cream usually praline flavoured and covered with shredded Almonds. The name of this cake comes from the route of the Paris to Brest bicycle race on which the original pastry shop was found that produced it. see Choux Pastry and Praline

Parma Ham

The famous sweet Italian ham which is dry cured and pressed. It is usually eaten raw accompanied by fruit or delicate vegetables.

Types of ham →

Parmigiano-Reggiano

The best known Italian cheese made in the old Duchy of Parma. It is aged at least two years and makes an excellent cheese for cooking as it melts without running or becoming rubbery.

Pastrami

A seasoned preserved meat made from dry-cured salt beef. The seasonings can include cloves, garlic, cinnamon, ground pepper, red peppers, allspice and coriander seeds. Well known served as a rye bread sandwich.

Pastry Cream

a cream used as a filling for pastry products usually associated with a confectioner's custard.

Pecorino Romano

Italy's oldest cheese. A hard sheep's milk cheese, it is much sharper and stronger than parmesan and tends to crumble more.

Phyllo (filo) paste/dough

A tissue thin sheet of dough of Greek origin made by rolling and pulling a sheet of pliable dough and used to make leaved pastry dishes. It is similar to the softer strudel paste. Phyllo can be made or purchased fresh or frozen. Its best known use is in Baklava but is now commonly used in many other dishes.

Physalis

also known as Cape Gooseberry, strawberry tomato, winter cherry or love-in-a-cage - I don't know why it's got so many names! These fruit are originally from Peru, yellow to red in color and often wrapped in its fine wafer thin brown leaves/bladder (calyx). Often used for their presentation value to decorate sweets. The fruit has a pleasant tart flavor and is often used in preserves and compotes, fruit salads, sorbets and ice cream.

Poblano pepper

A member of the pepper family. The peppers are dark green in color and vary in heat intensity from medium to hot. Dried poblano peppers are called ancho peppers.

Polenta

A cornmeal porridge from Northern Italy. Traditionally made with water in a large copper pot called the paiolo and stirred with a bastone (a wooden baton) then cooled in madia - a round wooden tray and cut up into diamond or squares and then served plain with butter and cheese, any of a number of sauces as pasta is and braised or roasted meat. Various ingredients can be added during cooking including cheese, vegetables, ham and truffles. There are two main types of Polenta - fine or coarse- they result in different textures in the finished product. see Recipe

Portobello mushroom

A meaty, delicious mushroom usually 4-6 inches wide. For preparation, remove and discard dark gills from the underside of the mushroom cap with a spoon.

Praline

Either a sweet consisting of an almond coated with caramelised sugar or a preparation consisting of crushed Almonds and Hazelnuts that have been coated in caramelised sugar, which is used for flavouring ice creams and as a filling in other sweets and chocolates. See Recipe.

Preheat

To set an oven or broiler at the desired temperature 15 to 30 minutes before use so that the temperature is reached before food is put in to cook.

Profiteroles

Small choux pastry buns. They can be either sweet or savoury. Various fillings are used such as pastry cream, chantilly cream, jam, ice cream, game purée and cheese mixtures. The word profit meant small gift. see Choux Pastry

Choux Pastry →

Prosciutto

The Italian word for ham, it is used to describe a salt-cured and air-dried ham coming from Italy. The meat is pressed to produce a firm texture, then sliced very thinly. Parma ham is a true prosciutto. "Prosciutto cotto" is cooked ham, "Prosciutto crudo" is raw.

Types of ham →

Purée

To mash solid food or pass it through a food mill or processor until it is smooth.

Quail

A small game bird of the partridge family that resembles a small, plump chicken. Known also as "bobwhites" and "partridges." The flesh is white and delicately flavored. Most quail today are raised on bird farms.

Stuffed Quail with wild mushrooms →

Quenelle

A dumpling made of meat or fish forcemeat bound with eggs, fat or a panada. Quenelles are usually shaped into a small egg shape or sausage and poached in water or stock.

Quenelles Nantua →

Reconstitute

To rehydrate dried food by soaking it in water or another liquid.

Red Corn

Another type of Flint or Indian corn. Occasionally used to make flour for tortillas. Normally used for animal feed. from gourmetsleuth.com

Reduce

To thicken or concentrate a sauce by boiling, which lessens the volume and intensifies the flavor.

Rice

The most widely cultivated cereal in the world after wheat. Many varieties divide broadly into long grains (such as Patna, Basmati, Surinam) which tend to stay separate when cooked and short grain (Carolina, Arborio, Piedmont) which tend to stick together. Versatile and used in innumerable dishes rice is the staple diet of a large proportion of the world's population. Rice can be cooked either on the stove (risotto, steamed, plain boiled), in the oven (Pilaff) or in a rice cooker. Generally speaking rice is cooked 1:2 rice:liquid by volume to achieve full absorption of the water or stock. For Risotto the ratio is 1:3 rice:liquid and the result is a moist creamy mixture. For details of different rice varieties

Rice guide →Pilaff Rice →

Rillettes

A preparation of pork, rabbit, poultry or goose cooked in lard then pounded into a rough paste and potted. Rillettes are served cold and usually as an hors d'oeuvre, often with toast.

Roast

A dry cooking process in the oven or on a spit with a small amount of fat, usually refers to meat.

Root Vegetable

The "hard" vegetables that are grown underground such as carrots, turnips, swedes.

Roulade

A rolled up preparation of meat, sponge, vegetables, fish which is usually stuffed.

Roux

A mixture of butter and flour cooked over low heat. Used for thickening a sauce and soups. The roux can be prepared in three ways. White - where the mixture is barely cooked and takes on no colour. This is used to produce a white sauce called Béchamel. Fawn - where the roux is cooked for a few minutes so that it starts to color slightly, this is used to make white sauces - Veloute Brown - where the roux is cooked to the colour of white coffee and is used to make brown sauces such as Espagnole. see also Boiling

Béchamel Sauce →Velouté →Espagnole →

Rub

To blend ingredients by rubbing through the fingers, more often called rubbing in. A blend of herbs and spices that coats the surface of meat used to add flavor.

Saffron

A spice made from the stigmas of the saffron crocus. It comes in either powder form or in dried strands. The best saffron probably comes from Valencia. Iran, Italy, Greece and South American countries also produce it. Saffron should be used carefully as it will give the dish a soapy and bitter flavour if used in excess, it is also the most expensive of all spices. Indian Saffron (not to be confused with turmeric) is redder in colour is considerably cheaper but much less pungent.

Saffron →

Salami

Originally an Italian sausage variety. Now any of a family of boldly seasoned sausages similar to "cervelats," except that they tend to contain more garlic and are coarser and drier. Salamis are rarely smoked. "Pepperoni" is a popular type of salami. Milano is one of the best Salamis available.

Salisbury Steak

A ground beef patty seasoned with onions and seasonings before it is broiled or fried and served with gravy. Named after Dr. J. H. Salisbury who recommended eating a lot of beef for a wide variety of ailments.

Salmis

a game stew, usually made with feathered game - abbreviated from salmigondis.

Saltpetre

the common name for potassium nitrate. It is used to preserve food especially meat in which it produces a characteristic bright pink colour. It is used to make brine in combination with salt and sugar. Numerous meat products are cured using saltpetre including pastrami and knackwurst

Sausage

Basically, sausage is ground meat with fat, salt, seasonings, preservatives, and sometimes fillers. They may be smoked, fresh, dry or semi-dry, uncooked, partially cooked, or fully cooked. There are thousands of variations of sausage.

Sauté

To brown or toss food in a small amount of oil. see Shallow Frying

Sauté Potatoes →

Scald

To heat a liquid just below the boiling point. Tiny bubbles should form around the edge of the pan.

Sear

To brown the surface of food quickly using high heat.

Serrano Ham

A Spanish ham air dried often with paprika and oil. Served in thin slices, it makes an excellent snack; and small amounts add a distinctive flavor to a wide variety of dishes such as soups, vegetables, or pasta. Serrano means "from the mountains", as the dry mountain air offers the ideal conditions for the curing process. more on Serrano Ham

Types of ham →

Shallot

A member of the onion family shallots often have a pinkish tinge and are more delicate in flavour than some onions when cooked. Shaped like cloves of garlic.

Shred

To slice finely.

Simmer

To cook liquid below or just at the boiling point. The bubbles should rise slowly to the surface.

Slice

To cut food into similar size flat pieces.

Slow Cooker

An electric Dutch oven or casserole used to cook stews and soups slowly. Also known as a crock pot.

Smoke point

The point at which fat breaks down, starts to smoke and gives off an odor. Different fats have different smoke points. The smoking point of animal fats is about 190°C/375°F, vegetable fats tend to be about 200°C/400°F, peanut and corn oils tend to have a higher smoke point at around 220°C/425°F. Take care as fat burst into flames easily if overheated. If it does turn off the heat and cover with a lid, a baking sheet, a fire blanket or a damp teatowel. DO NOT attempt to move the pan or fryer or use water to extinguish.

Snail

Popular since prehistoric times the "escargot", was eaten by ancient Romans who set aside special vineyards where snails could feed and fatten. Now a national dish of France but available worldwide. Usually served with garlic butter and in the shells.

Souse Loaf

Well-cooked pig's head and feet that are chopped into small pieces, marinated in lime juice, chili pepper and salt, then pressed into a loaf.

Soy Flour

Dried and ground soybeans. This product can be difficult to digest.

Soy Milk

Soy milk is made simply from dried soybeans and water. It is an excellent replacement for milk. Use it fresh to drink, or pour over cereal, or in most recipes that require milk. This is a great, easily digestible way to increase your soy intake.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce and Tamari are made of soybeans, salt and water. Soy sauce contains a wheat product called koji. Tamari contains no wheat. Soy sauce is used as a flavor enhancer. For the best flavor purchase a high quality soy sauce or Tamari product which has been well aged. Some of the very inexpensive brands may have a very harsh flavor.

Soya

The soya bean is very versatile and nutritious. When milled, becomes very high in protein.

Typical soy products include:

• Edamame
• Soy Flour
• Soy Milk
• Soy Sauce
• Dried & Roasted Soybeans

Spätzle

A form of pasta/noodle paste formed into irregular strips or dumplings which are served as a garnish or as a main dish. The word means "little sparrow". see Recipe

Spelt

An ancient variety of wheat. It has small brown grains that adhere strongly to the chaff. Used in some special bread varieties and broths.

Spice

An aromatic substance used to season food.

Squirrel

An abundant, largely tree based rodent. Red and gray squirrels are commonly eaten in the U.S. The gray squirrel is fatter and has a flavor considered by many as superior to the red squirrel. Contrary to popular belief Squirrels only have a strong "gamey" taste if "hung".

Stew

A slow, moist heat cooking method using a pot with a tight-fitting lid. The meat should be completely covered in liquid. Used for less tender cuts.

Brown Beef Stew →

Stir-fry

A quick, dry-heat cooking method using a lightly oiled skillet or wok. Use high heat while continuously tossing ingredients. Any cut can be used as long as it is cut into thin, uniform strips.

Stir-Fry Vegetables →

Stock

A liquid produced when water, seasonings, bones and/or vegetables have been slowly simmered. Known in French as fond (meaning foundation) or fumet (fish stock), they are the basis of many soups, sauces and stews.

Brown Stock →

Stroganov

A dish of thinly sliced beef (usually fillet, sirloin, tenderloin or top loin), onions, and mushrooms sautéed with a cream based sauce and garnished with sautéed mushrooms. Often served with a rice pilaf. Invented by the chef of Count Paul Stroganoff in the 19th century.

Strudel

A very thin pastry filled and rolled - either sweet or savoury. Originally from Vienna it was reputedly invented by a Hungarian chef who based it on Phyllo pastry. Classically filled with Apples and raisins many other variants are now commonly used. Recipe

Apple Strudel →

Sugar

Granulated sugar is the most common type of white sugar, it is crystalline and pours easily. British granulated is coarser than American granulated. It is used for making syrups and other heated mixtures, including adding to tea and coffee. Castor or caster sugar is the British name for a fine granulated sugar used in desserts and baking similar to the French "sucre en poudre" or the American superfine. Icing sugar is a powdered sugar mixed with cornflour to prevent it from caking.

Swedish Meatballs

A combination of ground meat (often a combination of beef, pork, or veal), sautéed onions, milk-soaked breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and seasonings. The mixture is formed into small balls, then sautéed until brown.

Swiss Steak

Round or chuck steak that has been tenderized by pounding, coated with flour, and browned on both sides. The meat is then covered in chopped tomatoes, onions, carrots, celery, broth, and seasonings, and baked for approximately two hours.

Tabasco

an American sauce consisting of chilli peppers marinated in spirit vinegar and salt.

Tabbouleh

a Lebanese salad of bulgur (cracked) wheat, mint, tomatoes, onions and parsley - sometimes with peppers and onions. It is traditionally wrapped in cos lettuce and eaten with the hands.

Tagine

a spicy vegetable or meat stew. The traditional method of cooking in North Africa-- Tagine--has been used for centuries to slow cook with these spices. Very little water is needed to keep foods moist, and the unique design of the Tagine lid locks in the combination of flavors. The base in this model, made of cast iron, works with any heat source: gas, electric radiant or solid plates, ceramic, halogen, induction, and Aga-Rayburn-type stoves. The tall, inverted cone shape keeps the top far from the heat source and from absorbing the heat, and thus stays cool to the touch.

Tagine of Lamb with quinces →

Tahini

a paste made from sesame seeds used in Hummus and also in Middle Eastern sweets. Can be light or dark if toasted.

Tapenade

a condiment originally from Provence made with capers, stoned black pitted olives, and desalted anchovies pounded in a mortar with lemon juice and herbs. There are numerous variations but the name comes from tapeno which means caper! Used as accompaniment to grilled fish, meat or served with crudités or on toast.

Tapenade →

Texas Toast

Thickly sliced (1-inch) French/Italian bread spread with butter on both sides and browned under broiler or on the grill.

Toss

To mix ingredients lightly.

Tripe

The stomach tissue of ruminant (chewing animals) usually beef. There are two main types of tripe: "blanket" or ridged from the first stomach and "honeycomb" from the second stomach.

Tronçon

A slice of a large flat fish cut through the bone.

Fish cuts: tronçon →

Truffle

An edible fungus which is found underground. It is round and can be black, white, dark brown or grey in color. The scarcity and decline in truffles has led this once widely used item becoming an expensive garnish. Probably the best and most expensive truffle is the black Périgord truffle. There are some 70 varieties of truffle. Truffles are also sold in jars and cans, truffle oil can also be bought and used to finish dishes with.

Truffle Butter →

Turkey

A farm bird raised for its delicate flesh. Originally an American game bird from the pheasant family that has been domesticated. The flesh of turkey cocks is drier and requires barding and basting. See also tips on Cooking Turkey

Roast Turkey and Gravy →

Turmeric

A spice made from the powdered stem of a plant, it is a yellow/orange coloured powder that imparts a bright yellow color to food and has a distinctive yet delicate flavour. Known as Haldi in Indian Cookery. It is used in American Mustard, in Piccalilli and in many curries to give colour and flavour.

Turmeric →

Turning

Cutting a vegetable into barrel shapes see also turning knives

Vanilla

is a bean from the pod of a tropical climbing orchid. It can also be obtained as Vanilla extract or as Vanilla essence, these should be used sparingly as the flavour can be acrid if used in excess. Vanilla sugar is made by leaving one or two vanilla pods in a jar of sugar. This gives a hint of vanilla flavour to the sugar. It can be made by mixing in a bit of vanilla essence and then drying out the sugar, but the result is less satisfactory. Use in place of ordinary sugar to give a hint of flavour.

Vanilla →Vanilla Sauce →

Veal

The meat of a calf up to one year old reared for slaughter when weaned. "Milk-fed" veal are unweaned calves. "Bob veal" is under a month old; "baby beef" is 6 - 12 months old. To keep their flesh from darkening, these animals are not fed grains or grasses.

Velouté

A white stock thickened with a blond roux. Velouté is the basis of many classic sauces and soups.

Velouté →Basic Veloute Style Soups →

Venison

Deer Meat. The term Venison covers the meat from any large game animal such as antelope, caribou, elk, deer, moose, and reindeer. Venison is probably the most popular large game meat eaten today. The term comes from the Latin "venatio" to hunt.

Venison Stew →

Vienna Sausage

A small frankfurter, often served as an hors d'oeuvre.

Water Buffalo

A buffalo native to the Old World tropics with large flattened horns. Also called "water ox."

Wild Boar

is the ancestor of the domestic pig but its meat is richer, leaner and stronger tasting than pork. It can be found in Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America for more info see Game.

Wok

A round bottom pan used for stir fry and other cooking methods using high heat.

Pots & pans guide →

Wonton skins

A thin noodle dough that is used in Oriental recipes. Often available in the produce area of the grocery store.

Yankee Pot Roast

A "pot roast" is a piece of chuck or round cut that is browned, then braised very slowly in a covered pot with a little liquid. A "Yankee pot roast" includes vegetables that are added part way through the cooking process.

York Ham

A classic British ham with a mild and sweetish flavor.

Types of ham →

Yorkshire Pudding

A batter based pudding traditionally served with Roast Beef. Recipe

Zest

To remove, in fine strips, the outermost peel of citrus fruits. Be careful not to include the bitter, inner white pith.

Zesters →