What are sweetbreads in culinary terms?
Q: What are sweetbreads in culinary terms?
A: Sweetbreads are the thymus or pancreas glands, especially of the calf and lamb, which are used as food in various cuisines.
Q: What other glands have been called sweetbreads?
A: The parotid gland, sublingual glands, and testicles have been called sweetbreads.
Q: How are sweetbreads prepared?
A: Sweetbreads are soaked in salt water and poached in milk, after which the outer membrane is removed. They are then dried, chilled, and often breaded and fried.
Q: In which Latin American cuisine are sweetbreads often grilled?
A: Sweetbreads are grilled in many Latin American cuisines, such as in the Argentine asado.
Q: How are sweetbreads used in Turkish cuisine?
A: Sweetbreads are served in bread in Turkish cuisine.
Q: What is the logic behind the name "sweetbread"?
A: The logic behind the name is unclear, but "sweet" may refer to the sweet and rich taste of the thymus, as opposed to savory tasting muscle flesh. "Bread" may come from brede, meaning roasted meat.
Q: Are sweetbreads only consumed from lamb and calf?
A: No, beef and pork sweetbreads are also eaten.
