Defrosted: meaning, definitions and examples

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defrosted

 

[dɪˈfrɔːstəd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

cooking process

Defrosted refers to something, typically food, that has been thawed from a frozen state. This process allows the item to return to a temperature suitable for cooking or consumption. The defrosting can be done using various methods such as leaving the food in the refrigerator, using a microwave, or running it under cold water. It's essential for ensuring that the food is safe to eat and has the desired texture and taste. Proper defrosting is crucial as improper methods can lead to bacterial growth.

Synonyms

thawed, unfrozen.

Examples of usage

  • The chicken was defrosted overnight in the fridge.
  • Make sure the vegetables are fully defrosted before cooking.
  • I used a microwave to quickly defrost the soup.
  • Defrosted fish should be cooked immediately.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from 'defrost,' which means to remove frost or ice.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the early 20th century, commonly referring to food preparation.
  • The prefix 'de-' in 'defrosted' indicates a reversal or removal, functioning similarly to other words like 'dehydrate' or 'desaturate.'

Culinary Science

  • Defrosting food properly ensures that it remains safe to eat and preserves its texture and flavor.
  • Two common methods for defrosting are refrigeration (slow) and the microwave (fast), though each affects food differently.
  • Certain foods, like fruits, may not need to be fully defrosted before consumption, as they can be enjoyed frozen.

Psychology

  • The process of defrosting can evoke emotions of anticipation, as people often look forward to a meal made with thawed ingredients.
  • Studies show that food preparation behaviors, like defrosting, can impact social interactions during meals, enhancing communal experiences.
  • Food-related tasks are often linked to nostalgia, reminding individuals of family gatherings and special occasions.

Health and Safety

  • Improper defrosting can lead to bacterial growth, highlighting the importance of following food safety guidelines.
  • The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends defrosting in the refrigerator, in cold water, or using microwaves for safer results.
  • Food must never be left out at room temperature for too long while defrosting to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Cultural Practices

  • Defrosting is an integral part of meal planning in various cultures, affecting how food is prepared for special occasions or daily meals.
  • Regions with colder climates often have unique practices for storing and defrosting frozen foods, reflecting their local traditions.
  • Certain cuisines favor fresh ingredients, generating a preference for defrosting over pre-prepped options.

Translations

Translations of the word "defrosted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 descongelado

🇮🇳 डीफ्रॉस्टेड

🇩🇪 aufgetaut

🇮🇩 dicairkan

🇺🇦 розморожений

🇵🇱 rozmrożony

🇯🇵 解凍された

🇫🇷 décongelé

🇪🇸 descongelado

🇹🇷 çözülen

🇰🇷 해동된

🇸🇦 مذاب

🇨🇿 rozmražený

🇸🇰 rozmrazený

🇨🇳 解冻的

🇸🇮 odmrznjen

🇮🇸 afþýddur

🇰🇿 ерітілген

🇬🇪 გადმოწვდილი

🇦🇿 aydınlatılmış

🇲🇽 descongelado

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,384, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.