Shanghai Bob

Here are a few questions that keep coming up; they probably give an indication of where I’ve been spending my time.  (For the record, I generally opt for the gelateria.)  All these explanations are three sentences or less, and I will add new questions as they arise.

What is the difference between ice cream and gelato?

Ice cream is made with cream (no surprise there), while gelato is made with (high fat) milk and has less air whipped in.  Ice cream freezers are colder than gelato freezers.  All these things contribute to the difference in texture that is the most notable macro-level distinction between ice cream and gelato.

What is the difference between lager/pilsener and ale/bitter/porter/stout?

The difference is in the type of yeast used: lagers use “bottom-fermenting” yeast and are fermented at colder temperatures. Top-fermenting yeast and higher temperatures produce ales and the ale subclasses of bitter, porter, stout, etc.       

Since yeast is the agent for ester and alcohol production, higher temperatures and ale yeast generally produce more complex flavors and more alcohol by volume.

What is the difference between a cathedral and a minster?

A minster (as in Westminster Abbey) is a kind of cathedral, one that was originally attached to a monastery.

What is the difference between a nickname and a moniker?

A nickname is a name that other people give you (Bobby Dazzler).  A moniker is a name you choose for yourself (Shanghai Bob).

This entry was posted on Saturday, August 30th, 2008 at 5:02 pm and is filed under explanations.