Definition: A chinois is a fine mesh conical strainer that chefs use to strain custards, soups, sauces, purees, and other liquids. The fine texture of the mesh catches pulp, seeds and other sediment to achieve a very smooth, pure liquid. The chinois can be used with a wooden cone, which can be used to force the mixture through the mesh, extracting the maximum amount of liquid.
Pronunciation: shin-WAHS
Also Known As: China Cap
Alternate Spellings: Chinoise
