Farina Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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farina

[fษ™หˆriหnษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cooking ingredient

Farina is a type of flour made from milled durum wheat. It is commonly used in the preparation of breakfast cereals, pasta, and as a thickening agent in various dishes. Farina has a fine texture and is often cooked to make a creamy, porridge-like dish. This ingredient is valued for its neutral flavor and ability to absorb liquids well. It is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy.

Synonyms

cereal, flour, grits, meal.

Examples of usage

  • She prepared a warm bowl of farina for breakfast.
  • The recipe calls for farina to make the pudding thicker.
  • Farina can be used as a base for various sauces.
  • He added sweetener to his farina to enhance the flavor.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Farina is commonly used to make a warm breakfast cereal known as Cream of Wheat, popular in North America.
  • It can also be used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces, adding a creamy texture.
  • In some cultures, itโ€™s cooked with milk and sugar to create pudding-like desserts.

Nutrition

  • Farina is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of energy, often consumed for breakfast.
  • It is usually fortified with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for morning meals.
  • When combined with fruits or nuts, it can offer a balanced meal with fiber and healthy fats.

Cultural Impact

  • In Italy, farina is a key ingredient in polenta, a traditional dish made from cornmeal that can be served in many styles.
  • Farina gained popularity during the Great Depression due to its affordability and versatility as a filling food.
  • In various countries, different forms of farina are used to create unique dishes reflecting local tastes and traditions.

Origin of 'farina'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'farina' comes from Latin, meaning 'meal' or 'flour', highlighting its grainy roots.
  • It evolved into various forms in different languages, often referring to finely ground food products.
  • In some regions, 'farina' can also refer to any fine flour made from grains, not just wheat.

The word 'farina' comes from the Latin term 'farina,' which means 'meal' or 'flour.' This Latin term is derived from 'far,' referring to the grain of wheat or spelt. The use of farina dates back to ancient civilizations where it was a staple food source. In many cultures, farina was processed in various ways, often ground into fine flour to create different types of bread and porridge. Over the centuries, farina has remained a significant ingredient in various cuisines, especially in the preparation of breakfast cereals that have gained popularity in Europe and North America. Today, farina is often associated with instant breakfast cereals, providing an easy and convenient cooking option.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,446 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.