What is a cone-shaped mesh utensil commonly used in cooking?

A cone-shaped mesh utensil used in cooking is known as a chinois. This tool is specifically designed for straining liquids from solids, providing a fine filtration that is ideal for tasks like making stocks, sauces, or purées. The conical shape helps direct the flow of liquid efficiently, ensuring that the strained contents fall into a container without spilling.

Chinois are typically made of a very fine mesh or may have a metal construction, allowing for thorough separation of particles, which is particularly useful in achieving a smooth texture in recipes. This differs from other types of utensils like strainers or colanders, which may not have the same fine mesh quality and are often used for different purposes, such as rinsing vegetables or draining pasta. Understanding the unique applications of a chinois emphasizes its importance in professional cooking where precision and texture are critical.