Escalloped: meaning, definitions and examples

Culinary Techniques

• The process usually involves baking layers of thinly sliced vegetables, like potatoes, with creamy sauces for richness.
• Commonly, escalloped dishes include a topping of breadcrumbs or cheese, which becomes golden and crispy in the oven.

Etymology

• The term 'escalloped' comes from the French word 'escaloper,' which means to cut or shape in a scalloped design.
• Initially, the word was used in the culinary context to describe dishes cooked in a similar fashion to oysters that were baked in their shells.

Pop Culture

• Escalloped potatoes, also known as scalloped potatoes, are a classic dish often featured in family gatherings and holiday meals.
• The dish commonly appears in cookbooks and is associated with comfort food in many Western cuisines.

Nutrition

• When made with whole ingredients, escalloped dishes can provide a balanced meal with carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins.
• However, many variations can be high in calories due to the creamy sauces and cheeses used, highlighting the importance of moderation.

Regional Variations

• In some regions, seafood such as scallops or shrimp can also be escalloped, combining shellfish with creamy sauces.
• In the American South, a popular variant includes layering sweet potatoes with spices for a twist on the traditional recipe.