Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

The “spiny lobster” is a type of crustacean that shares certain physical characteristics with the more familiar American lobster, including the presence of claws. Found primarily in the waters of Southern regions, this delicacy is typically best known in the United States in the form of imported South African tails.  

The term “rockfish” is used to describe a variety of fish that share similarities with bass. In addition, this term is sometimes used interchangeably with “striped bass,” which is a specific species of fish. In the coastal waters of North America, a remarkable creature emerges as both a prized game fish and a delectable culinary…

The diminutive yet highly prized poultry known as the Rock Cornish game hen boasts an all-white meat composition and a smaller bone structure. Developed through a combination of selective breeding techniques that involved crossing the Cornish hen with other breeds of chicken, this delicacy has become a favorite among gourmands. Weighing in at less than…

A confectionery delight that consists of hard, translucent sugar crystals that are typically quite large is known as “rock candy.” These crystals are formed by placing thick threads in the cooking pan and allowing the sugar to crystallize around them. The end result is a unique and satisfying candy that is both visually appealing and…

The “giant” or “Spanish garlic” is a type of leek that hails from Southeast Europe and Asia Minor. With a more subdued flavor profile than traditional garlic, this variant is favored by those who prefer a milder taste. The plant produces distinctive globular heads of purple flowers that sit atop stalks towering up to three…

A delectable brown sauce, typically paired with pork, is made using a combination of white wine, onion, and dry mustard. The piquant flavor of the sauce serves to enhance the natural savory qualities of the meat, creating a delectable and satisfying culinary experience. Introducing a zesty condiment that tantalizes the taste buds – a piquant…

In the days of yore, a mechanical contraption designed to rotate the spit on which meat was roasted over an open fire was commonly known as a “roasting jack.” This ingenious device eliminated the need for manual labor, as it turned the spit continuously, ensuring that the meat was evenly cooked on all sides.  

A fresh and juvenile ear of corn, hand-picked at a stage when it is still tender and green, was traditionally roasted in its natural husk, often on a bed of hot coals. Nowadays, this corn is more commonly husked and boiled. Originally referring to a type of field corn, the term “roasting ear” has since…

A generously sized and weighty cooking vessel, typically accompanied by a bottom rack on which meat is positioned for roasting, is commonly referred to as a “roasting pan.” Often equipped with a cover, this kitchen essential facilitates the creation of succulent and evenly-cooked meat dishes.  

The edible delight known as a turnover, or a croquette wrapped in pastry, boasts a filling of either meat or fruit, and can be either baked or deep-fried before being served as an appetizer, main course, or dessert. A rissole, a petite croquette delicately enveloped in a delicate pastry shell, is expertly prepared by either…