A palate cleanser is a neutral-flavored food or drink that removes food residue from the tongue allowing one to more accurately assess a new flavor. In cultures where diversity of flavors in dishes is customary, the palate cleanser is considered an essential companion to main dishes.

What can I use to cleanse my palate?

Some widely used palate cleansers are sorbet, bread, apple slices, banana, biko and pickles. Tart or citrus flavors are also used as a cleanser, such as braised pineapple or grapefruit. Bamia is a traditional Anatolian stew that is sometimes served as a palate cleanser between food courses at ceremonial feasts.

What does the phrase palate cleanser mean?

Definition of cleanse the palate

: to clean and refresh the mouth between different parts of a meal Sorbet is sometimes served between courses to cleanse the palate.