Sprenkelen

Sprenkelen is a Dutch verb that denotes applying a light spray or scattered droplets to a surface, typically in small quantities. The action is usually brief and aimed at creating a fine mist or a few droplets rather than a continuous coating. The term covers a range of contexts where liquid or powder is released in a controlled, delicate manner.

In cooking and food preparation, sprenkelen refers to lightly dusting or seasoning a dish, for example sprenkelen zout, peper, kruiden, of olijfolie over voedsel. The emphasis is on a subtle, even distribution rather than a heavy layer. In gardening and agriculture, sprenkelen describes using a spray or mister to apply water or plant protection products to leaves, often to maintain moisture or minimize residue.

In art and crafts, sprenkelen can describe the technique of flicking or flick-sprinkling paint, glaze, or pigment onto a surface to create small, irregular specks or texture. The term signifies a controlled, decorative application rather than a solid deposit.

Grammatically, sprenkelen is a regular Dutch verb. Present tense forms include ik sprenkel, jij sprenkelt, wij sprenkelen; past tense is ik sprenkelde, wij sprenkelden; perfect tense is ik heb gesprenkeld. The expression can be used both transitively (sprenkelen something) and intransitively (sprenkelen met water), depending on the context.

See also: strooien (to sprinkle more broadly), spuiten (to spray under pressure). Sprenkelen emphasizes a fine, controlled application rather than an even, heavy coating.