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Sweetbread Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ
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sweetbread

[หˆswฤ“tหŒbred ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

culinary term

Sweetbread refers to the culinary name for the thymus gland or pancreas of an animal, particularly from lambs or calves. These organs are considered delicacies in various cuisines around the world, known for their tender texture and rich flavor. Sweetbreads are often prepared by grilling, sautรฉing, or frying, and can be served in a variety of dishes. Despite their name, they are not a type of bread but rather a gourmet delicacy that is appreciated by food enthusiasts.

Synonyms

pancreas, thymus.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered sweetbreads at the gourmet restaurant.
  • The chef prepared the sweetbreads with a mushroom sauce.
  • Sweetbreads can be challenging to cook properly due to their delicate texture.
  • In French cuisine, sweetbreads are often featured in upscale dishes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

  • In the past, sweetbreads were considered a delicacy in many cultures and were often served at fancy meals.
  • They can come from different animals, such as cows or lambs, and are usually prepared by frying or roasting after soaking.
  • In French cuisine, sweetbreads are called 'ris de veau', and chefs often pair them with rich sauces or vegetables.

Culinary Techniques

  • Preparation often involves soaking the sweetbreads in water or milk to remove impurities and improve taste before cooking.
  • It is common to lightly bread sweetbreads before frying, giving them a crispy outside while keeping them soft inside.

Cultural Significance

  • In many countries, such as France and Italy, sweetbreads are celebrated in traditional dishes during festive occasions.
  • Starting from the 18th century, sweetbreads became associated with gourmet dining, symbolizing wealth and refinement in cuisine.

Nutrition

  • Sweetbreads are high in protein and contain essential vitamins, but they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their fat content.
  • They are often considered a gourmet treat, providing a unique flavor that pairs well with various ingredients and seasonings.

Origin of 'sweetbread'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'sweetbread' has roots in Middle English, where 'bread' referred to 'meat' in general, not just what we bake.
  • The 'sweet' in 'sweetbread' doesn't indicate taste but rather refers to the organ's tender meat compared to tougher cuts.

The term 'sweetbread' originates from the 15th century and has its roots in Old English. The word 'sweet' refers to the mild flavor of the glands and 'bread' is derived from the Old English 'brฤ“ad', which can mean 'piece' or 'food'. Historically, sweetbreads were highly prized in elite culinary circles in Europe, particularly during the Renaissance, when organ meats were more popular. The name has been somewhat misleading, as it does not relate to any form of bread but reflects the luxurious status of these delicacies in fine dining. Over time, sweetbreads have maintained their place in gourmet cooking, often featured in classic European recipes. Today, they are celebrated in modern cuisine as chefs explore traditional uses while also adapting techniques to suit contemporary palates.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,266, 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.