palette cleanser
Between-course refresher bite
A palette cleanser is something that neutralizes lingering flavors between courses or tastings—a bit of sorbet between rich dishes, plain bread between wine samples.
The term extends to anything that provides mental reset: After that intense drama, I need a palette cleanser—maybe a silly comedy.
Often spelled palate cleanser, which reflects the actual body part involved.
- sorbetFrozen fruit confection
- lemon sorbetFrozen citrus dessert
- intermezzoBrief linking musical passage
- amuse boucheBite-sized chef's gift
- gingerPungent culinary rhizome
lemon · refreshing · crisp · citrus · mint · reset · blank slate · fresh start · neutral · light · tart · acidic · bite · sherbet · pickled · vinegar · sparkling · sparkling water
palette cleanserumami bomb
Intensely savory dish
bold flavor · blue cheese · cream sauce · cheese course · foie gras
palette cleansermain course
Primary dish served
main dish · entrée · pièce de résistance · showstopper · signature dish
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