What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
blanched
Example
The chef blanched the almonds before using them in the cake. [blanched: past tense]
Example
Blanching the tomatoes will make it easier to peel off the skin. [blanching: gerund or present participle]
parboil
Example
Parboil the potatoes before roasting them in the oven. [parboil: verb]
Example
The recipe calls for parboiled carrots before adding them to the stir-fry. [parboiled: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blanch is more commonly used than parboil in everyday language. Blanching is a versatile technique used in various recipes and cooking instructions, especially for vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Parboiling, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used for specific foods like potatoes or meat.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between blanched and parboil?
Both blanch and parboil are relatively formal terms used in cooking. However, blanch is more commonly used and understood in both formal and informal contexts, while parboil is less commonly used and may be more commonly encountered in professional or specialized cooking settings.