Eggbeater Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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eggbeater
[ˈɛgˌbiːtər ]
Definition
kitchen tool
An eggbeater is a manual or electric kitchen tool used to beat eggs or mix ingredients quickly. It consists of a handle and rotating beaters that incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Eggbeaters are commonly used for making omelets, meringues, and whipped cream. They can be either hand-cranked or powered by electricity, providing versatility in the kitchen.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I used the eggbeater to whip the cream.
- For the recipe, you need to beat the eggs with an eggbeater.
- She prefers the manual eggbeater over the electric kind.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Before electric mixers, manual eggbeaters were developed in the 1850s, enhancing efficiency in cooking.
- The first mechanical eggbeater was patented in 1856 by a man named Washington D. Smith, changing how cooks prepared recipes.
Culinary Significance
- Using an eggbeater can incorporate air into mixtures, creating light and fluffy textures in dishes like soufflés and meringues.
- Eggbeaters can also be used for whipping cream or mixing batter, showcasing their versatility in the kitchen.
Pop Culture
- Eggbeaters often appear in cooking shows and competitions, highlighting their importance in both amateur and professional kitchens.
- In animation, characters are sometimes portrayed as whimsical cooks using exaggerated versions of eggbeaters for comedic effect.
Modern Uses
- Many contemporary eggbeaters now come in electric forms, making mixing tasks quicker and easier for cooks.
- Some eggbeaters can even double as handheld mixers, with interchangeable attachments for different culinary tasks.
Origin of 'eggbeater'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'eggbeater' combines 'egg', referring to its primary use, and 'beater', which means something that mixes or stirs.
- First recorded use of the term was in the early 19th century, when kitchen tools began to be mass-produced.
The term 'eggbeater' emerged in the late 19th century, as the need for efficient kitchen tools grew with the rise of household cooking. The word combines 'egg,' referring to its primary use, and 'beater,' which denotes a tool that mixes or agitates substances. Early versions of the eggbeater were manual, requiring users to turn a handle to rotate the beaters. With advancements in technology, electric eggbeaters became popular in the 20th century, making the process of beating eggs quicker and easier for home cooks. The design has evolved over time, with various shapes and sizes now available, but its primary function remains unchanged.