Definition, use, and examples of the word finish.
Hosted by Jenn de la Vega
Research by Alicia Book
Videos edited by Chris De Pew
Knife logo by pixel artist Rachelle Viola
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I’m Jenn de la Vega and this is your culinary word of the day.
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Today’s word is FINISH
It is spelled…F-I-N-I-S-H.
It is a word with various definitions.
First, according to Claire Lower of Lifehacker:
“To professionally ‘finish’ a dish, you add a final touch of flavor or texture to make your meal stand out.
Often, people confuse “garnish” for “finish.” When you plate a meal, the two components have separate goals. The primary purpose of a finish is to add more flavor, while a garnish is used to embellish or decorate your dish.”
Here are some examples from EMILEE UNTERKOEFLER of LifeSavvy:
“Chances are, you already have most of these finishing ingredients in your kitchen, but if not, you can find them at any local grocery store. These three types of finishes provide either an abundance of flavor or a palate-friendly texture that will make everyone go back for seconds.
Lemon zest is great on lemon blueberry bread, and always add lime zest to your key lime pie. [...]
A savory butter or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) can make a world of difference on certain foods. [...]
Salt and pepper are two simple toppings most people shake on their meal without the slightest bit of hesitation. [...]
When you use freshly cracked peppercorns, they provide a pungent taste and crunchy texture, which is just what those poached eggs need on a Sunday morning.
You can add a finish to all sorts of dishes, but meats especially benefit from it. When you finish your steak or chicken meal with garlic-herb butter, it not only makes it look amazing, but the creamy taste also makes it a meal to remember.
Most Fish entrees taste great with a fresh squeeze of lemon. The citrus fruit helps break down the intensity of the fish taste and leaves your palate with a tart, refreshing taste.”
A second definition, according to Recipe Tips: finish is a…
“Term describing the taste that remains in your mouth after wine has been consumed, spit, or swallowed. The finish can be profusely different than the taste sensed while consuming. The “finish” or “aftertaste” is part of a wine’s evaluation. Great wines should have a pleasant, long aftertaste.”
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I’m your host Jenn de la Vega with research producer Alicia Book and this has been your culinary word of the day.
Next time on Culinary Word of the day, permission to leave things behind.
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