Glossary C

The food glossary +++ Popular Articles: 'Cuisine', 'Cajeta', 'Coffee'

Deutsch: Cranberry / Español: Arándano rojo / Português: Oxicoco / Français: Canneberge / Italiano: Mirtillo rosso

Cranberry in the food context refers to the small, red, tart fruit that grows on evergreen shrubs, primarily found in cooler regions such as North America and parts of Europe. Known for their bright red colour and distinct tart flavour, cranberries are popular in both fresh and processed forms, including juices, sauces, dried fruit, and dietary supplements.

Deutsch: Chlorophyll / Español: Clorofila / Português: Clorofila / Français: Chlorophylle / Italiano: Clorofilla

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants and algae that plays a critical role in photosynthesis, allowing plants to absorb light energy from the sun. In the food context, chlorophyll contributes to the vibrant green colour of many vegetables and herbs, and it is valued for its nutritional and potential health benefits. Chlorophyll is used as a natural food colouring and is also consumed in supplements and extracts for its purported health benefits.

Deutsch: Karamellisieren / Español: Caramelización / Português: Caramelização / Français: Caramélisation / Italiano: Caramellizzazione

Caramelizing in the food context refers to the process of heating sugar to create a rich, golden-brown colour and a deep, sweet flavour. This technique is widely used in cooking and baking to enhance both the taste and appearance of foods, creating a nutty, slightly bitter sweetness. Caramelization is commonly applied to both simple sugars and foods with natural sugars, such as onions, carrots, and fruits.

Deutsch: Flusskrebs / Español: Cangrejo de río / Português: Lagostim / Français: Écrevisse / Italiano: Gambero di fiume

Crawfish (also known as crayfish, crawdads, or mudbugs) are freshwater crustaceans resembling small lobsters, commonly used in a variety of regional cuisines, especially in Southern United States and Cajun cooking. These crustaceans are known for their sweet, delicate meat, typically found in the tail, and are often boiled, grilled, or used in stews and soups.

Deutsch: Kreuzkontamination / Español: Contaminación cruzada / Português: Contaminação cruzada / Français: Contamination croisée / Italiano: Contaminazione incrociata

Cross-contamination in the food context refers to the transfer of harmful bacteria, allergens, or other microorganisms from one food item or surface to another, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses. This often occurs when raw foods come into contact with ready-to-eat foods, utensils, or preparation areas, resulting in contamination and increased health risks.

Deutsch: Maismehl / Español: Harina de maíz / Português: Farinha de milho / Français: Farine de maïs / Italiano: Farina di mais

Cornmeal in the context of food is a coarse or finely ground flour made from dried corn (maize). It is used in a variety of dishes worldwide and can vary in texture from fine to coarse, depending on the specific culinary application. Cornmeal is known for its slightly sweet, nutty flavour and bright yellow or white colour, depending on the type of corn used.