Mashing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mashing
[ˈmæʃɪŋ ]
Definition
cooking
The action of crushing or smashing something to a pulp or a powder.
Synonyms
crush, grind, pulverize, squash.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| crush |
Can be used in both literal and figurative senses. Literally to break something into pieces by pressing it hard. Figuratively to describe overcoming or defeating someone or something.
|
| pulverize |
A more intense form of grinding or crushing, often used to describe turning something into a fine powder. It can also have a metaphorical use to imply complete destruction.
|
| grind |
Often used to describe the process of breaking something into very small pieces or a powder, usually in the context of spices, coffee, or grains.
|
| squash |
Typically used to describe flattening something with force. Can also be used figuratively to describe suppressing something or someone forcefully.
|
Examples of usage
- He was mashing the potatoes for dinner.
- She was mashing the garlic with a mortar and pestle.
- The recipe called for mashing the avocado for the guacamole.
- The chef was mashing the ingredients together to make a smooth puree.
- I enjoy mashing the bananas for my morning smoothie.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Techniques
- Mashing is commonly used in making mashed potatoes, which are fluffy and often served as a side dish.
- Different tools, such as a fork or a potato masher, can be used for mashing, impacting the final texture.
- Innovative chefs might use flavored oils or spices in their mashing process to add variety and taste.
Cultural Practices
- In various cultures, different foods are mashed – for example, in Peru, they enjoy 'causa', which is mashed potatoes mixed with lime and spices.
- African and Caribbean cuisines include dishes such as 'fufu', which involves mashing starchy vegetables to create a dough-like mixture served with soups.
- Mashing is associated with celebratory dishes like mashed avocados for guacamole, making gatherings tastier.
Science of Cooking
- Mashing breaks down the cell walls in food, releasing starches and making the dish creamier.
- The physical act of mashing can affect the flavor release, making the dish taste different based on how much it is mashed.
- Cooking food before mashing it can enhance its sweetness and create a smoother texture.
History
- Historical records show that mashing dates back centuries, with ancient recipes for mashed grains appearing in many cultures.
- Mashing methods and tools have evolved, from simple wooden pestles in ancient times to modern electric mixers.
- Cookbooks from the 19th century often contained elaborate recipes for mashed vegetables, showcasing its longstanding popularity.
Nutrition
- Mashed foods can be easier to digest for people who have difficulty chewing, especially in caregiving settings.
- Mashing can introduce more fiber into diets, especially when including the skins of potatoes and other vegetables.
- It’s a fun way to include children in cooking, encouraging them to smash their favorite vegetables for a nutritious meal.
Origin of 'mashing'
The word 'mashing' originated from the Middle English word 'masshyn', which came from the Old French 'machier', meaning 'to bruise or crush'. The verb 'mash' has been used since the 14th century to describe the action of crushing or beating something into a soft mass. Over time, the term 'mashing' has evolved to also refer to the process of turning ingredients into a smooth mixture, particularly in cooking.