Glossary of terms

Vermouth is an aromatized fortified wine flavored with a blend of herbs, spices, and botanical ingredients. The base is white or red wine to which wormwood, coriander, cloves, cinnamon, and dozens of other ingredients are added. There are two main types, dry vermouth, which is light and used in cocktails like Martini, and sweet vermouth, which is darker and used in cocktails like Negroni or Manhattan. Vermouth originates from Italy and its name derives from the German word for wormwood.

Větrník is a traditional Czech pastry made from choux dough, filled with vanilla or caramel buttercream, and topped with caramel glaze. It ranks among the most beloved Czech confections and is an essential item in every Czech bakery. Větrníky are made from classic choux pastry that puffs up during baking, creating a hollow interior perfect for filling with rich cream.

Viennese coffee is a classic coffee beverage consisting of a double espresso or strong drip coffee served with a generous portion of whipped cream. This iconic drink originates from Viennese coffeehouse culture, inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Viennese coffee is traditionally served in a glass goblet, and the cream is not stirred but sipped through.

Vinaigrette is a classic salad dressing made from a mixture of oil and vinegar in an approximately 3:1 ratio, seasoned with salt, pepper, and optionally mustard, herbs, or garlic. The name derives from the French word vinaigre, meaning vinegar. Vinaigrette is the foundation of many salad dressings in European and American cuisine, with virtually endless variations.

Vindaloo is a very hot Indian dish from Goan cuisine where meat is marinated in vinegar, garlic and a fiery spice blend, then slowly braised.

Vinegar is an acidic liquid produced through the fermentation of alcohol by acetic acid bacteria. There are many types of vinegar depending on the base ingredient, including wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, rice vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and distilled vinegar. Each type has a distinct flavor and culinary application. Vinegar is used to dress salads, marinate meats, pickle vegetables, and prepare sauces. Apple cider vinegar is popular for its purported health benefits.

Vínná klobása is a traditional Czech meat product made from finely ground pork with a characteristically smooth texture and mild flavor. It is among the most popular Czech sausages and is most often consumed boiled or heated in hot water. The name vínná does not relate to wine but likely derives from the German word Wiener, meaning Viennese. It is a popular quick snack food.

Virado à Paulista is a traditional dish from São Paulo combining rice, beans, pork, collard greens, fried banana, and egg.

Vlašský salát is a traditional Czech salad made from a mixture of diced vegetables, salami, and mayonnaise. Despite its name referencing Italy, it is a typically Czech dish with no connection to Italian cuisine. It consists of boiled carrots, celery, peas, pickles, salami, and mayonnaise. It is a beloved accompaniment to open-faced sandwiches and one of the best-selling deli products in the Czech Republic.

Vurt is a colloquial Czech term for a sausage or frankfurter, derived from the German word Wurst. This expression is commonly used in informal speech and refers to various types of cured meats. Sausages are most often served heated in water, grilled, or pan-fried. They are a typical accompaniment to beer, popular at barbecues or as a quick snack. In Czech pubs and street stalls, they are among the most beloved treats, served with mustard, horseradish, and bread.