Definition

A type of wrapper made from paper or foil used to cook food, especially meat or fish, by sealing in moisture and flavor.

Example

The chef prepared the fish en papillote, allowing it to steam in its own juices.

Conversation

Have you ever tried cooking fish in papillote?

No, I haven't! How does that work?

You wrap the fish in parchment paper and bake it, which keeps it really moist.

That sounds delicious! I should definitely give it a try.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Papillote comes from the French word 'papillon', meaning butterfly, which refers to the way the parchment is folded to create a sealed packet. The suffix '-ote' is a diminutive form in French, suggesting a small or delicate item. Thus, 'papillote' refers to a small, delicate packet used for cooking.

Memory Tip

Imagine a butterfly ('papillon') that is delicately wrapped up — that's how 'papillote' refers to a small cooking packet.

Visually Confused Words