palate cleanser; intermezzo; small dish between courses
A small, refreshing dish served between courses in a Japanese meal to cleanse the palate and provide a break from the main flavors. Often a simple vegetable, pickled item, or light soup.
In kaiseki cuisine, a vinegared dish is often served as a palate cleanser after the grilled course.
These pickles are perfect as a palate cleanser between rich dishes.