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Lox Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lox

[lɑks ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food item

Lox is a fillet of brined salmon that is often served on bagels with cream cheese. It is traditionally cured but not smoked, and its preparation can vary between different cultures. Commonly associated with Jewish cuisine, lox has become a popular breakfast item in many parts of the world. It is typically thinly sliced and offers a rich, salty flavor that pairs well with various toppings and spreads.

Synonyms

brined salmon, cured salmon, salmon.

Examples of usage

  • I love my bagel with cream cheese and lox.
  • Lox is a traditional topping in New York delis.
  • For brunch, we served lox with capers and onions.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Traditions

  • This dish originated in Jewish cuisine and became popular in New York City during the early 20th century.
  • Traditionally, lox is served with bagels, cream cheese, capers, and onions, creating a flavorful breakfast or brunch option.

Cultural Impact

  • Lox and bagels represent a significant cultural symbol in Jewish-American cuisine, reflecting the blending of traditions.
  • This dish is commonly featured in deli menus across the United States, showcasing the popularity of New York-style deli breakfasts.

Health and Nutrition

  • Salmon is known for being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
  • While lox is delicious, it is also high in sodium due to the curing process, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Global Variations

  • In Scandinavian countries, cured salmon is known as 'gravlax', which involves marinating the fish with a sugar-salt mixture and herbs.
  • Beyond lox, there are numerous preparations of salmon globally, each reflecting local tastes and methods of preservation.

Origin of 'lox'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'lox' comes from the Yiddish word for salmon, 'laks', which itself is derived from the Old Norse 'lax'.
  • In English, 'lox' specifically refers to cured salmon, differentiating it from fresh or cooked salmon.

The term 'lox' is derived from the Yiddish word 'laks,' which means salmon. The root of the word can be traced back to the Old Norse word 'lax,' which also means salmon. The tradition of curing fish dates back centuries and was popularized among Jewish communities in Eastern Europe. Lox was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The method of preparing lox involves brining rather than smoking, which distinguishes it from other forms of cured salmon. Over time, lox has become a staple of American breakfast cuisine, evolving in its presentation and pairing with various accompaniments such as bagels, cream cheese, and vegetables.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,933, 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.