mashlike

Mashlike is an adjective used to describe a texture or consistency that resembles mashed foods rather than a smooth puree. It implies partial homogenization with visible particulates and a cohesive, spreadable body. The term is informal and not tied to a fixed standard, but in practice it is used in culinary writing and product descriptions to convey a mid-range texture between chunky and smooth.

Origin and usage of the term mashlike derive from the word mash combined with the suffix -like. It entered common use in home cooking and food science descriptions in the late 20th century, though precise first attestations are unclear. It is often employed when a recipe or product instruction aims for a balanced texture that is softer than whole pieces but not fully puréed.

Texture and examples include a mashlike carrot side dish created by boiling and partially mashing with some flecks remaining, yielding a soft mass with small lumps. Similarly, mashed beans kept slightly chunky or a fruit compote that has been partially puréed can be described as mashlike. In food preparation and product development, the term helps specify a texture that is meant to spread or scoop easily while retaining some structure.

Applications and note: in sensory analysis, mashlike texture may be evaluated for particle size, cohesiveness, and spreadability. The term is more common in recipe notes, blogs, and industry briefs than in formal dictionaries, where it remains a descriptive, non-technical label rather than a standardized category. See also mashed, purée, texture profile.