Agrodolce

/ˌæɡroʊˈdoʊltʃeɪ/ noun

Definition

An Italian cooking method that combines sweet and sour flavors, typically using vinegar and sugar with vegetables.

Etymology

From Italian 'agro' (sour, from Latin 'acrum') + 'dolce' (sweet, from Latin 'dulcis'). This culinary technique dates back to medieval Italian cuisine and represents a flavor balance prized across Mediterranean cooking.

Kelly Says

Agrodolce isn't just random flavor mixing—it's a culinary philosophy that mirrors how our taste buds actually work, balancing sweetness and sourness to create complexity that's way more interesting than either flavor alone.

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