How to Cleanse the Pallet

Indulge in a classic tradition.

Cleansing the palate, like many classic elements of fine dining, may have fallen by the wayside, but there is no reason that you can't revive this civilized culinary tradition. Cleansing your palate prior to a main course or dessert essentially "washes" your taste buds, readying them to thoroughly experience and enjoy the next course.

Things You'll Need

• Sherbet Sorbet Fresh fruit Sparkling water Granitas Watermelon Himalayan salt Sprouts Feta cheese Balsamic vinegar

Instructions

How to Cleanse the Pallet

1. 

   Scoop up the sherbet. Traditional and delicious, a single scoop of sherbet in a light berry or citrus flavor will ready your palate for the next course.

2. Serve a citrus sorbet. A tropical, icy sorbet in lime, orange, lemon or grapefruit will refresh and cleanse without filling you up.

3. 

   Slice some fruit. A few wedges of tangerine or orange, a couple of chunks of pineapple or a few pieces of melon sprinkled with mint is all you need to cleanse your palate in between courses.

4. Cleanse your palate as you dine. To savor the varying tastes on your plate, take a small sip of plain, lemon or lime sparkling water in between bites.

5. 

   Serve a round of granitas. This traditional Italian dessert made of fresh fruit, water and sugar is first simmered over heat and then frozen into a delicious indulgence. Try whipping up a batch made of ginger root, oranges, strawberries or lemons.

6. Cube some watermelon. The Monterey County (California) Herald suggests this recipe for an unusual but effective palate cleanser: Place one cube of watermelon on a 2-inch square piece of Himalayan salt. Garnish with fresh sprouts and a slice of feta cheese, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and serve.

References

• Watermelon Cube
• Ginger Granita
• Citrus Sorbet

Resources

• Polish Your Palate
• Palate Cleanser Recipes