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mise en place

American  
[mee zahn plos] / mi zɑ̃ ˈplɒs /
Or mise-en-place

noun

French.
  1. the gathering and preliminary preparation of the ingredients and equipment to be used in cooking or serving food.

    The chef started the mise en place for the curry: chopping tomatoes, cutting onions, and measuring spices.

  2. the ingredients and equipment gathered and prepared before cooking.

    The dish is the perfect size for minced herbs and other mise-en-place you need within easy reach of the stove.


mise en place British  
/ miz ɑ̃ plas /

noun

  1. (in a restaurant kitchen) the preparation of equipment and food before service begins

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of mise en place

First recorded in 1860–65; French: literally, “a putting in place”


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

The appeal is rhythm and momentum: one big mise en place, one big protein cook-off, one big batch of baked goods.

From Salon ● Dec. 20, 2025

It's one of the reasons I so love "mise en place."

From Salon ● Aug. 5, 2023

The best habit for cooking efficiently is having your mise en place ready.

From Seattle Times ● Sep. 25, 2021

They’re cheap, lightweight and durable and are offered in an array of sizes that are great for holding your mise en place or tossing a large salad for your next dinner party.

From Seattle Times ● Aug. 11, 2021

Well, since you asked, they are offered in an array of sizes that are great for holding your mise en place or tossing a large salad for your next dinner party.

From Washington Post ● Jul. 23, 2021

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