Palate cleanser
A palate cleanser is a neutral-flavored food or drink that removes food residue from the tongue allowing one to more accurately assess a new flavor. In cultures where diversity of flavors in dishes is customary, the palate cleanser is considered an essential companion to main dishes.
Palate cleansers are often used between tasting wine or cheese or other strong flavors. Pickled ginger is used as a palate cleanser between sushi pieces.
Some widely used palate cleansers are sorbet, bread, apple slices, banana, biko and pickles. Tart or citrus flavors are also used as a cleanser, such as braised pineapple or grapefruit.
Bamia is a traditional Anatolian stew that is sometimes served as a palate cleanser between food courses at ceremonial feasts.
