degorge

verb

de·​gorge ˌdē-ˈgȯrj 

degorged; degorging; degorges

transitive + intransitive

1

: to salt (a vegetable) or be salted in order to extract moisture before cooking

Slice and degorge the aubergines and courgettes.

—Rosemary Hume et al.

Vegetables such as cucumbers or eggplants are often salted prior to preparation to draw out their bitter juices … However, there are many cooks who feel that degorging detracts from natural flavors …

—The Encyclopedia Of Herbs, Spices, & Flavorings

2

: to soak (a food, such as meat or fish) or be soaked in cold liquid to remove unwanted matter (such as sand or blood) before cooking

To begin, prepare the clams. Place them in a bowl and cover completely in cold water. Allow to degorge for 1 hour …

—Eataly Cookbook

Word History

First Known Use

1980, in the meaning defined at sense 1