crème brûlée
crème brûlée is the French phrase for creme brulee.
The term refers to a rich custard dessert that is topped with a layer of hardened caramelized sugar.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of crème (cream) and brûlée (burnt).
Did you know?
- The word crème shares a root with the Ancient Greek word khrîsma, which refers to a consecrated oil used for anointing kings and priests.
- In France, you can find a savory version of this dish called crème brûlée salée which uses goat cheese or herbs instead of sugar in the custard.
- The word crème is used in the expression crème de la crème to describe the absolute best of a particular group.
Examples in context
- Je voudrais une crème brûlée, s'il vous plaît.I would like a crème brûlée, please.
- Cette crème brûlée est vraiment délicieuse.This crème brûlée is truly delicious.
- Est-ce qu'il reste de la crème brûlée ?Is there any crème brûlée left?
Example conversation
At a French cafe after dinner.
- HugoLéa, tu veux partager un dessert ?Léa, do you want to share a dessert?
- LéaOui, la crème brûlée a l'air excellente.Yes, the crème brûlée looks excellent.
- HugoD'accord, je vais la commander pour nous.Okay, I will order it for us.
- LéaMerci Hugo, tu es très gentil.Thank you Hugo, you are very kind.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries crème, crème brûlée, CC BY-SA 4.0.
