The thymus, a specialised main lymphoid organ of the immune system, is typically known as sweetbreads when ready as meals. Sweetbreads, regardless of their identify, are neither candy nor bread. They provide a wealthy, barely gamey taste and a young, typically creamy texture, relying on the animal and preparation technique. Veal (younger calf) and lamb are the commonest sources.
Traditionally thought-about a delicacy, the thymus gland as meals represents a supply of vitamins, together with protein, zinc, and vitamin C. Consumption has declined in fashionable instances, but sweetbreads preserve a presence in traditional French and different European cuisines. Their inclusion in conventional dishes usually displays a historic context the place using all edible elements of an animal was important.
