RENNET Meaning and
Definition
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Rennet is a substance of enzymatic nature derived from the inner lining (particularly the fourth stomach or abomasum) of young ruminants, typically calves, lambs, or kids. The term "rennet" is often used interchangeably to refer to the extract obtained from these stomachs or the complex of enzymes present in it.
Traditionally, rennet has been used as a crucial ingredient in the process of cheesemaking. It contains the enzyme chymosin, also known as rennin, which plays a vital role in coagulating milk. When added to milk, rennet causes the proteins in the liquid, primarily casein, to solidify and form curds. These curds are essential for separating the liquid whey from the solid curd mass, a step central to cheese production. The curdling process catalyzed by rennet enables the transformation of liquid milk into a semi-solid mass, the first step in cheese formation.
Rennet can be obtained through natural or microbial sources, but calf rennet is highly valued and widely used due to its consistent and efficient ability to coagulate milk. However, vegetarian alternatives to animal-derived rennet, such as microbial or vegetable rennet, have been developed to cater to specific dietary preferences or religious restrictions.
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• A decoction of the inner membrane of a calf's stomach, used for coagulating milk.
• A variety of apple from France.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RENNET
Etymology of RENNET
The word "rennet" originates from the Old English term "renet", which was derived from the Old Norse word "renga" or "hringja", meaning "to curdle" or "to clot". This, in turn, came from the Proto-Germanic word *hringjaną, which also meant "to curdle". Rennet refers to an enzyme complex found in the stomach lining of young ruminant mammals, such as cows or sheep, which is traditionally used to coagulate milk in cheese-making. The word "rennet" has been in use since at least the 14th century.
Similar spelling words for RENNET
- remit,
- Renata,
- Renate,
- Renato,
- rend,
- Renda,
- Renaud,
- rente,
- Renetta,
- Renita,
- rende,
- rent,
- reunite.
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