P

glossary

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PANDAN LEAF

A fragrant member of the pandanus or screwpine family, pandan leaf is used to wrap seasoned morsels of chicken or pork, and added to various cakes and desserts. Bottled pandan essence can be used as a substitute in sweets.

PANKO (dehydrated bread crumbs)

Japanese dehydrated bread crumbs with a coarser texture than regular bread crumbs. Available at most supermarkets or oriental groceries. To make panko, use white bread and make coarse crumbs in the blender. Then dry crumbs slightly in the oven.

PAPADS

Also known as poppadum, these wafer-thin disc of seasoned wheat and lentil flour crisp up when fried in hot oil. Dry thoroughly before frying.

PARSLEY, CHINESE (coriander  or cilantro)

A leafy parsley with a pungent flavor. Use as a garnish. Also may be used to add flavor to most dishes.

PASSATA

Passata is sieved cooked tomato pulp concentrate. It can be bought in packets or jars in supermarkets and delis; there are various brands including store own brands and prices vary. It is usually stocked near to the pasta sauces and tomato purees. You can dilute it, add herbs, sugar, whatever to the pulp later depending on the recipe. For small quantity, you can substitute tomato paste. For larger quantities, tomato paste might add too much sweetness, so you might prefer to use equal parts of tomato paste and tomato puree

PEPPERCORNS

Thought to be native to the Malabar coast of India, peppercorns are generally sold black (with their skins intact) and are frequently added whole to dishes. If crushing or grinding, do so just before use for maximum flavor and freshness.

PLUM SAUCE

Sold in tin or jars, this piquant reddish-brown condiment is made from salted plums, chilies, vinegar and sugar.

Refrigerate after opening. Available from Chinese stores.

POMELO

A citrus that is somewhat similar to the grapefruit, the pomelo is drier, sweeter and has a much thicker and tougher peel. It is eaten as a fruit or broken up for salads.

POPPY SEEDS

The tiny white poppy seeds are prized for their delicate nutty flavor and used as a thickening agent. Soak in warm water for 10 - 15 minutes and grind before use. Substitute with cashews or almonds.

POTATO Yamato-imo

This is actually a type of mountain yam which is grated and used raw for its gluey texture and bright white color. Sato-imo is a type of yam with a much finer texture and slightly different flavor from Western potatoes. New potatoes make an acceptable substitute.

PRAWNS, DRIED

See SHRIMPS, DRIED