Espuma

Definition

A light, aerated foam made by whipping a liquid and fat together under pressure (usually in a whipped cream charger). It's foam with culinary pretensions that somehow tastes incredible.

Example Usage

Top the soup with a parmesan espuma for an elegant presentation.

Origin

Spanish/French 'espuma' (foam), popularized in modernist cuisine at El Bulli

Fun Fact

It was invented as a way to incorporate flavor into dishes with minimal substance—it's basically delicious air.

Source: Modernist and molecular gastronomy

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