Glossary of terms

Cabbage is one of the most widely used vegetables in Central European cuisine. It is grown in two main varieties, white and red. White cabbage is most commonly fermented into sauerkraut, which forms the basis of many traditional dishes such as bigos, cabbage soup, and stuffed cabbage rolls. Red cabbage is braised with apples and spices as a side dish for roasted meats. Cabbage is a rich source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.

Cabbage is one of the most widespread vegetables in Central Europe. It forms a compact head from tightly packed leaves and is grown in both white and red varieties. White cabbage is the base of many traditional dishes such as cabbage soup, braised cabbage, and sauerkraut. Red cabbage is often prepared sweet with apples. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C and fiber, and through fermentation becomes even more nutritious.

Cake is a festive baked dessert consisting of one or more layers of sponge, cocoa, or other batter, filled with cream, fruit, or filling, and decorated with icing, marzipan, or whipped cream. Cakes are an essential part of birthday celebrations, weddings, and other significant occasions.

Caldeirada is a traditional Portuguese fish stew made from various types of fish and seafood braised with tomatoes, potatoes and white wine.

Caldo verde is a traditional Portuguese soup made from potatoes, finely shredded kale, onion and slices of chouriço sausage.

Campari is an Italian bitter liqueur with a characteristic red color and a distinctive bitter taste. Created in 1860 in Novara, it has since become an iconic aperitif worldwide. It is produced by macerating herbs, spices, and fruit peels in alcohol and water. Campari is the base of famous cocktails like the Negroni and the Americano.

A canape is a small decorated appetizer or open-faced sandwich topped with various spreads, cold cuts, cheeses, vegetables, and other garnishes. Canapes are prepared as cold finger food and served at social events, celebrations, and banquets. They can be simple or elaborately decorated, ranging from basic butter and ham to ornate pieces with herbs and caviar. Canapes are a staple of Central European entertaining tradition.

Canapés are small decorative appetizer bites served as starters or refreshments at social events. The base is a thin slice of bread, toast, or cracker, topped with a combination of spreads, meats, cheeses, vegetables, or fruits. They are characterized by their careful preparation and aesthetic appearance, making them an essential part of receptions and celebrations.

Candied fruit is fruit that has been repeatedly soaked in increasingly concentrated sugar syrup, gradually replacing the water content with sugar. This ancient preservation method extends the shelf life of fruit for many months. Candied fruit has an intensely sweet taste and a glossy, translucent appearance. It is used as decoration for cakes and pastries, as an ingredient in holiday breads and fruitcakes. The most commonly candied fruits include orange and lemon peel, cherries, and pineapple.

Candying is an ancient food preservation technique in which fruit or other ingredients are repeatedly soaked in sugar syrup of increasing concentration. During the process, water in the food is gradually replaced by sugar, which prevents bacterial growth and extends shelf life. The entire process takes several days to weeks. Candying is most commonly used for fruits, citrus peels, and edible flowers. The result is glossy, translucent products used in confectionery.

Cane sugar is a natural sweetener obtained from sugarcane, a tropical grass grown mainly in Brazil, India, and Thailand. Unlike refined white sugar, it retains some molasses, which gives it a characteristic brown color and caramel flavor. It comes in many varieties from light demerara to dark muscovado. Cane sugar is used in baking, beverage preparation, and Asian cuisine. It is the primary raw material for producing rum and molasses.

Cannoli are traditional Sicilian dessert tubes made from crispy fried dough filled with sweet ricotta cream, candied fruit, or chocolate chips.