tretshëm

Tretshëm is a term used in Albanian to describe something sour or acidic. It is an adjective that can be applied to a variety of foods and substances. For instance, fruits like lemons and limes are described as tretshëm, as are certain fermented products like yogurt or sauerkraut. The sensation of sourness is caused by the presence of acids, such as citric acid or lactic acid, which stimulate specific taste receptors on the tongue.

In Albanian cuisine, tretshëm flavors are often balanced with other tastes to create complex dishes. For example, a dressing might incorporate lemon juice for a tretshëm note alongside olive oil and herbs. The acidity can also serve a functional purpose, such as tenderizing meat or acting as a preservative. Beyond food, the term can metaphorically describe a negative or unpleasant situation or mood, though this usage is less common than its literal meaning related to taste. The opposite of tretshëm is typically sweet or bitter.