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Minced Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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minced

[mษชnst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

food preparation

Minced refers to food that has been chopped into very small pieces, typically used in cooking to enhance the texture and flavor of various dishes. This technique is common for meats, vegetables, and herbs.

Synonyms

chopped, diced, finely cut.

Examples of usage

  • Minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma to dishes.
  • The recipe calls for minced beef in the meat sauce.
  • She prefers minced herbs in her salads.
  • You can use canned tomatoes or minced tomatoes in this recipe.
Context #2 | Verb

food processing

To mince is to cut food into very small pieces, typically by chopping or grinding. This method is often used to prepare ingredients for various recipes.

Synonyms

chop, dice, macerate.

Examples of usage

  • I need to mince the onion before sautรฉing it.
  • He minced the herbs with a sharp knife.
  • To create a smoother paste, finely mince the garlic.
  • Make sure to mince the meat thoroughly for the best texture.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Techniques

  • Minced meat is often used in dishes like tacos and meat sauces, as it cooks faster and absorbs flavors better.
  • The art of mincing can enhance the taste and texture of meals by allowing spices to mingle better with the food.

Nutrition

  • Minced meat can be leaner or contain a mix of fat; choosing lean options can lead to healthier meals.
  • By mincing vegetables, you can increase your intake of nutrients since smaller pieces are easier to digest.

Cultural Significance

  • Minced dishes vary across cultures, such as 'kibbeh' in Middle Eastern cuisine and 'bolognese' sauce in Italian cooking.
  • In some Asian cuisines, minced ingredients are essential for creating flavors, as seen in dishes like dumplings and stir-fries.

Food Safety

  • Minced meat can pose a higher risk of foodborne illnesses if not cooked properly, due to its larger surface area exposing more to bacteria.
  • Storing minced foods at the right temperature is crucial to prevent spoilage and maintain safety.

Origin of 'minced'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'minced' comes from the Latin word 'minutiare,' which means 'to make small.'
  • In Middle English, the word 'mince' originally referred to something that is finely chopped or diced.

The word 'minced' originates from the late Middle English term 'mincen,' which is derived from the Old French 'mincier,' meaning 'to chop or cut finely.' This, in turn, only strictly comes from the Latin term 'minutia,' which means 'smallness' or 'trifle.' The usage of 'mince' in reference to food preparation became popular in the culinary context as the techniques evolved. By the 15th century, it was commonly used to describe the act of finely chopping or grinding ingredients, influencing cooking styles and recipes across various cultures, leading to its modern understanding and application in kitchens worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,642, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.