Portuguese Phrase
Engrossa bem os molhos.
Meaning
This phrase is a culinary instruction, directing someone to make the sauces denser or more viscous. It implies achieving an optimal consistency, ensuring the sauce is neither too watery nor excessively thick, which is crucial for flavor and texture in many dishes.
When to use
You'll frequently encounter this phrase in recipes, cooking shows, or when receiving culinary advice. It's a common directive when preparing dishes where a rich, well-textured sauce is essential, such as stews, pasta dishes, or roasts, to ensure it properly coats ingredients and enhances the overall meal.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Engrossabemosmolhos
Engrossa (Engrossar)
This is the imperative form of the verb 'engrossar' (to thicken), used as a command or instruction. It's conjugated for 'você' or 'tu' (you).
bem
'Bem' is an adverb meaning 'well'. It modifies the verb 'engrossa', indicating that the thickening should be done to a good, appropriate degree, not just any degree.
os
'Os' is the masculine plural definite article, meaning 'the'. It precedes the noun 'molhos' to specify 'the sauces' rather than sauces in general.
molhos
'Molhos' is the masculine plural noun for 'sauces'. It's the direct object of the verb 'engrossa'.
🗨In Conversation
O que devo fazer com o molho agora?
What should I do with the sauce now?
Engrossa bem os molhos, para ficar perfeito.
Thicken the sauces well, so it's perfect.
✕Common Mistakes
Faz grosso os molhos.
Using 'fazer grosso' (to make thick) is less idiomatic for sauces; 'engrossar' is the specific verb for thickening.
Engrossa muito os molhos.
'Muito' means 'very' and can imply excessive thickness. 'Bem' suggests achieving a good, appropriate consistency.
Engrossa bem molhos.
The definite article 'os' (the) is typically required before 'molhos' when referring to specific sauces in this context.
↔Alternatives
Deixa os molhos mais espessos.
Make the sauces thicker.
Apura os molhos.
Refine/reduce the sauces.
Dá mais consistência aos molhos.
Give more consistency to the sauces.
Cultural Tip
In Portuguese and Brazilian cuisine, sauces are often a fundamental component of a dish, not merely an afterthought. Achieving the correct consistency is paramount for both flavor integration and presentation, particularly in traditional dishes like feijoada or various seafood preparations. A sauce that is 'bem engrossado' (well-thickened) is often a mark of a carefully prepared and delicious meal.