Consomme

Consommé is a rich, clarified broth made from meat or vegetables, often served as a clear soup. The process of clarification involves slowly simmering the broth with a mixture of egg whites, lean ground meat (or the original protein source), mirepoix (diced vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions), and sometimes aromatics. This mixture traps impurities, which are then strained away, resulting in a pristine and flavorful consommé. It is a refined culinary preparation valued for its clarity, purity, and delicate flavor, often presented as a first course in fine dining establishments. Traditionally, consommé is served hot and can be garnished with various accompaniments, such as finely diced vegetables, herbs, or a small amount of meat.

Consomme meaning with examples

• The chef presented a chilled cucumber consommé, garnished with microgreens, as a refreshing amuse-bouche before the meal. This consommé had a vibrant, clean taste, perfectly suited for the hot summer evening. Its clarity was stunning. Every flavor was balanced with no off-flavors from the cooling process. Its preparation involved a slow process, ensuring that nothing clouded the flavor or the broth's purity.
• During the formal banquet, guests enjoyed a classic beef consommé, delicately seasoned with sherry and a hint of herbs. It served as the first course and was followed by a duck confit. The consommé's perfect clarity was a testament to the kitchen's meticulous attention to detail. This hot consommé was served from a silver terrine into elegant bowls, enhancing the dining experience.
• The restaurant featured a vegetarian consommé made from seasonal vegetables, boasting a refined flavor profile. It was carefully clarified to achieve a crystal-clear appearance. This particular consommé was known for its intense vegetable flavors. Served hot and garnished with a sprinkle of finely chopped chives, this dish was served alongside the finest appetizers as a tasting experience.
• The cookbook provided detailed instructions for crafting a chicken consommé, emphasizing the importance of slow simmering and patient straining to ensure a flawless outcome. The recipe highlighted the key ingredient, egg whites. If done properly, the clarification process can deliver perfect clarity to the consommé. Once strained, one can then have a dish of unparalleled flavor and clarity.