1.
preliminary seasoning, marinating
The process of seasoning ingredients before the main cooking process, typically to enhance flavor absorption and remove odors.
肉に下味を付けてから焼く。
Season the meat beforehand, then grill it.
下味には塩と胡椒を使った。
I used salt and pepper for the preliminary seasoning.
鶏肉を下味に漬けて一晩置く。
Marinate the chicken in the seasoning and leave it overnight.
FORMATION: 下 (under/preliminary) + 味 (taste/flavor).
COOKING CONTEXT: A fundamental Japanese cooking technique used to prepare ingredients before the main cooking process.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 下味を付ける (apply preliminary seasoning)
- 下味に漬ける (marinate in seasoning)
- 下味を染み込ませる (let the seasoning soak in)
TYPICAL SEASONINGS:
- 塩 (salt)
- 胡椒 (pepper)
- 醤油 (soy sauce)
- 酒 (sake)
- 生姜 (ginger) - for removing odors