Kolmekäiguline

Kolmekäiguline is an Estonian term that translates to "three-course" or "three-move" depending on the context. In a culinary context, it refers to a meal or a menu consisting of three distinct dishes, typically an appetizer, a main course, and a dessert. This is a common format for formal dinners and special occasions.

The term can also be used in other contexts, such as in games or activities, to denote a sequence of three actions or steps. For example, a chess game might involve a three-move combination, or a dance routine could have a three-move sequence. The core meaning remains a progression through three distinct stages.

The structure of a kolmekäiguline meal is generally standardized: the appetizer (eelroog) is served first, designed to whet the appetite. This is followed by the main course (pearöog), which is the most substantial part of the meal. Finally, the meal concludes with the dessert (magustoit), offering a sweet finish. The specific dishes within each course can vary widely depending on culinary traditions, preferences, and the occasion.

Understanding the term kolmekäiguline provides insight into Estonian dining customs and the general concept of a structured, multi-part meal or sequence of actions. It emphasizes a progression through three distinct phases, offering a sense of completeness and variety.