aromatic

Definition

In chemistry, molecules with special ring structures that make organic chemists weak in the knees—specifically benzene and its derivatives. In cooking, it's those vegetables and spices that make your kitchen smell like a Michelin-starred restaurant instead of a crime scene. The term basically means 'smells good and/or has interesting molecular properties,' depending on your field.

Example Usage

The recipe instructed her to sauté the aromatics—onions, garlic, and celery—until fragrant, which is chef-speak for 'cook until your neighbors start getting jealous.'

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