rennet

Definition

An enzyme preparation derived from animal stomachs (usually calves) or produced through other means, used to coagulate milk and separate curds from whey in cheese-making. It's an essential ingredient in traditional cheesemaking and yogurt production.

Example Usage

The cheesemaker added rennet to the warm milk to begin the curdling process.

Origin

From Middle English rennen, meaning 'to run' or 'to melt,' referring to the milk's transformation during cheese production.

Fun Fact

Vegetarian rennet derived from fungi or genetically modified microorganisms now offers a plant-based alternative to traditional animal rennet.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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