Caramelizing: meaning, definitions and examples

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caramelizing

 

[ ˈkærəˌmɛlaɪzɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

cooking technique

Caramelizing is the process of heating sugar until it melts and turns into a brown, sweet substance known as caramel. This technique enhances the flavor of foods, adding a rich, sweet taste. It is commonly used to develop flavors in various dishes, including desserts and savory meals. The process not only adds sweetness but also a complex depth of flavor due to the Maillard reaction. Caramelization occurs at temperatures typically above 170°C (340°F) and requires constant attention to avoid burning.

Synonyms

browning, sugar cooking, toasting

Examples of usage

  • She is caramelizing onions for the soup.
  • They caramelized the sugar for the dessert glaze.
  • Caramelizing the fruits enhances their natural sweetness.
  • The chef explained the importance of caramelizing to build flavor.

Translations

Translations of the word "caramelizing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 caramelizando

🇮🇳 कैरेमलाइजिंग

🇩🇪 Karamellisieren

🇮🇩 karamelisasi

🇺🇦 карамелізування

🇵🇱 karamelizacja

🇯🇵 キャラメル化

🇫🇷 caramélisation

🇪🇸 caramelización

🇹🇷 karamelizasyon

🇰🇷 카라멜화

🇸🇦 تَكارَمَلَ

🇨🇿 karamelizace

🇸🇰 karamelizácia

🇨🇳 焦糖化

🇸🇮 karamelizacija

🇮🇸 karamellisering

🇰🇿 карамелдеу

🇬🇪 კარამელიზაცია

🇦🇿 karamelizasiya

🇲🇽 caramelización

Etymology

The word 'caramelizing' is derived from 'caramel', which traces its origins back to the 17th century. It is believed to come from the Spanish word 'caramelo', and further rooted in the Latin 'cannamellum', meaning 'sugar cane'. Traditionally, caramelization was a method used by cooks to create a sweet syrup or sauce that could enhance various dishes. The understanding of sugar's transformation under heat evolved over centuries, leading to more complex cooking techniques and flavor development in culinary practices. Caramel has fascinated chefs and home cooks alike with its versatile application, from candy making to sophisticated sauces, showcasing the essential relationship between sugar and heat in cooking.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,590, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.