Halbtrocken A German term meaning literally half dry. Used in reference to German wines with nine to 18 grams of residual sugar per liter.
Haricots verts Tiny green string beans.
Harrisa An extremely spicy, red chili paste from North Africa. It is made of a mixture of chilies, garlic, and spices.
Hasenpfeffer A German stew made from rabbit.
Heifer A young female cow that has not yet had a calf.
Herb bouquet A mixture of tied herbs used for seasoning soups, sauces, and stocks.
Herbaceous A positive term used to describe the subtle aroma of herbs in Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. When such an odor is too pronounced, it is negatively described as vegetal.
Hermitage A highly-regarded French appellation located along the northern Rhone. Reds of this appellation are made from Syrah grapes, and whites, from Marsanne andd Rousanne.
High density lipoprotein (HDL) Molecules consisting of a small amount of cholesterol within a thick protein covering that carry cholesterol away from artery walls and tissues, and return it to the liver for excretion as bile. High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. See also Lipoprotein.
High-altitude baking Baking practices to compensate for atmospheric conditions above 2,500 feet. At high altitudes, ingredients dry out faster, doughs and batters rise faster, and liquids boil faster. While the actual adjustments made depend on the altitude. pans should be greased more heavily, oven temperatures increased slightly, leaveners and sugar reduced, and liquid increased.
Hijiki A dried, squiggly black seaweed used in Japanese cooking. Usually rehydrated before using. High in calcium.
Hock A British term for Rhine wines derived from the German wine town of Hochheim.
Hoisin sauce A reddish-brown sweet and spicy Chinese sauce similar to barbecue sauce made from soybeans and peppers. Available in most grocery stores. Also known as Peking sauce.
Hor d'oeuvre Small appetizers or relishes served as the first course of the meal.
Horseradish Pungent perennial root vegetable used grated in horseradish sauce and cocktail sauce.
Hotte Traditional French grape-picking basket worn on the back. Originally wood, but now also found in metal or plastic.
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Ice cream soda A beverage made of carbonated water, a flavored syrup, and one or more scoops of ice cream.
Ice milk A sorbet to which a small amount of milk has been added. Lighter and icier than ice cream.
Infuse To steep in liquid without boiling to extract flavor or color, as when herbs or spices are added to olive oil.
Infusion Liquid derived from the process of infusing.
