Vergiet

A vergiet is a kitchen utensil, a perforated bowl used to drain liquids from foods. In many contexts it is synonymous with the English term colander. A vergiet is typically bowl-shaped with numerous holes or perforations and may feature a flat edge for pouring, along with handles on the sides or small feet to keep it raised above a surface.

Materials and variants vary widely. Common versions are made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, or silicone. Some models are collapsible or nesting for compact storage, and they range from small to large capacities to suit different foods and batch sizes. Sizes often include a base with feet to elevate the contents and allow drainage to occur efficiently.

Usage and care. Vergiets are used to drain boiled pasta and vegetables, rinse and drain grains or canned foods, and strain foods after washing. For very fine filtration, a separate fine-mesh sieve may be preferred. Care depends on material: metal vergiets are usually dishwasher-safe but can rust if left wet; plastic and silicone variants are typically dishwasher-safe, though heat and exposure can affect color and rigidity. Drying promptly helps prevent odor and corrosion.

See also. The vergiet is a common staple in European kitchens and is part of a family of strainers that includes sieves and colanders. Its simple design makes it suitable for everyday draining tasks and it remains a versatile tool in food preparation.