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Jellied Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jellied

[ˈdʒɛl.id ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food texture

Jellied refers to a texture that is gelatinous, typically resulting from the cooking of food in a way that creates a thick, jelly-like consistency. It is commonly associated with certain types of preserves, desserts, or meats prepared with gelatin. In culinary terms, jellied items are often attractive because of their glossy appearance and can be both savory and sweet. The term can also describe dishes served cold, where the jellification process provides a unique mouthfeel.

Synonyms

gelatinous, gelled, thickened.

Examples of usage

  • Jellied cranberry sauce is a holiday favorite.
  • They served jellied meat as an appetizer.
  • The dessert was a jellied fruit salad.
  • He topped his dish with a jellied glaze.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

  • The practice of making jellies can be traced back to ancient Rome, where fruit juices were combined with honey.
  • By the 18th century, jellied dishes became popular in Europe, often included in feasts and celebrations.
  • Modern jelly is often made using pectin, a natural thickening agent found in fruits.

Science

  • Jelling is a process involving gelling agents that bond with water molecules to create a stable structure.
  • When heating fruit juice with sugar and a gelling agent, the process transforms it into a gel-like substance, making it 'jellied'.
  • The stability of jellies depends on the ratio of ingredients and the cooking process, crucial for texture.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of desserts, jellied treats are often featured in children's parties, with colorful shapes and flavors.
  • In literature, jellied foods can symbolize innocence and nostalgia, evoking memories of childhood snacks.
  • Films and TV shows often use jellied desserts to depict whimsical or surreal experiences due to their playful appearance.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, jellied dishes are served at special occasions, emphasizing creativity in presentation and flavor.
  • Traditionally, certain jellied foods are believed to have health benefits, appearing in folklore as remedies for various ailments.
  • Jellied meat dishes were popular in the Victorian era, showcasing culinary artistry and social status.

Origin of 'jellied'

The word 'jellied' derives from the Old French word 'gelee,' which means 'to freeze or gel.' This term is used in English since the 14th century to refer to a congealed or gelled substance. By the mid-19th century, it began to be commonly used in culinary contexts to describe foods that have been prepared with gelatin or other gelling agents. The process of jellification has been utilized in various cultures to preserve food and enhance flavors, evolving over the years in both techniques and popular dishes. Today, jellied products are found worldwide and are an essential part of many culinary traditions, especially in desserts and cold dishes.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,186, 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.