Which term means to prepare food by cutting into thin stick-like pieces?

• A. Mince
• B. Pare
• C. Julienne
• D. Reconstitute

Answer: (C)

The concept being tested is how different knife cuts change the size and shape of foods. The term that means preparing food by cutting into thin stick-like pieces is julienne. When you julienne, you slice vegetables into long, slender matchsticks about 1/8 inch thick and roughly 2 inches long. This uniform, thin shape helps them cook quickly and evenly and creates a clean, restaurant-style presentation, which is especially useful in stir-fries, salads, and garnishes.

Mince refers to cutting food into very small pieces, finer than diced. Pare means to trim or peel away the outer layer or skin. Reconstitute means to restore dried foods to the needed texture by soaking or adding liquid.