Macadamia Nut
A native to Australia, the macadamia is a fleshy white nut with a coconut-like flavor.
Macerate
To soak a food in a liquid to infuse it with flavor.
Mandoline
A compact, hand-operated machine with various adjustable blades for thin to thick slicing and cutting. Mandolines have folding legs and come in both wood- or stainless steel-frame models. They're used to cut firm vegetables and fruits (such as potatoes and apples) with uniformity and precision.
Marinate
To let food stand in a mixture called a marinade (such as a liquid, dry rub, or a paste) before cooking. Liquid marinades are usually based on a acidic ingredient, such as wine or vinegar; dry marinades are usually salt-based.
Marzipan
A thick almond, sugar and egg white paste used in confectioneries. Marzipan is mainly used in cakes and pastries of the European tradition.
Masa Harina
Corn dough used mainly for tortillas and tamales.
Mesclun
Found in specialty produce markets and many supermarkets, mesclun (also called salad mix and gourmet salad mix ) is simply a potpourri of young, small salad greens. The mix varies depending on the source, but among those greens commonly included are arugula, dandelion, frisée, mizuma, oak leaf, mâche, radicchio and sorrel.
Mirepoix
A mixture of diced carrots, onions, celery and herbs sautéed in butter. Sometimes ham or bacon is added to the mix. Mirepoix is used to season sauces, soups and stews, as well as for a bed on which to braise foods, usually meats or fish.
Mise en place
Literally "put in place" in French. Refers to the preparations for cooking, setting out bowls, pots, and pans and measuring, washing, peeling, and chopping and mincing ingredients.
Molcajete y tejolete
The Mexican term for "mortar and pestle" ‹ molcajete being the mortar, tejolete the pestle. The black basalt (volcanic rock), produces a rough texture on both pieces. They are used in the traditional manner for grinding spices and herbs and other mixtures.
Mole
Mole is a spicy, rich Mexican sauce consisting of nuts, seeds, spices, chilies and occassionally chocolate.
Mousse
A frozen dessert consisting of either a flavored custard or a fruit puree lightened with beaten egg whites and/or whipped cream.