Emulsify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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emulsify
[ɪˈmʌlsɪfaɪ ]
Definition
in cooking
To mix liquids together to form an emulsion, typically by using an emulsifying agent such as egg yolk or mustard. Emulsifying helps to combine usually immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, into a stable mixture.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| emulsify |
Use in a scientific or culinary context when referring to the process of mixing two liquids that normally don't mix well, such as oil and water.
|
| blend |
Use when referring to mixing ingredients smoothly together, often in cooking or making drinks.
|
| mix |
Use in a general context when referring to the act of combining two or more substances together. It is the most commonly used term.
|
| combine |
Use when referring to joining two or more things together without necessarily creating a perfectly smooth mixture.
|
Examples of usage
- Add a little mustard to help emulsify the oil and vinegar dressing.
- Use an immersion blender to emulsify the ingredients for the mayonnaise.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Emulsification usually requires an emulsifier, such as egg yolk, which helps to stabilize the mixture.
- When you shake or blend oil and water together, tiny droplets of oil are suspended in water, creating a stable emulsion.
Culinary Arts
- Dressings and sauces, like mayonnaise and vinaigrettes, are common examples of emulsified mixtures.
- Professional chefs often use emulsification techniques to create smooth textures and enhance flavors in dishes.
Medicine
- Emulsification is important in pharmaceuticals to improve the delivery of medications that are poorly soluble in water.
- Some dietary fats are emulsified to help with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in the body.
Environmental Science
- Emulsifiers are also found in nature, helping to break down oils in oily spills, thus aiding in eco-friendly cleanup processes.
- Understanding emulsification is crucial in developing biodegradable products that reduce waste in landfills.
Origin of 'emulsify'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'emulsify' comes from the Latin 'emulsus,' meaning 'to milk out,' relating to how creams mix together.
- It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting advancements in cooking techniques.
The word 'emulsify' comes from the Latin word 'emulsius' which means 'milked out'. The concept of emulsification has been used in various industries for centuries, especially in the food and cosmetic industries. The process of emulsifying liquids has been perfected over time to create stable mixtures for different purposes.