What does the term "noisette" refer to in cooking?

The term "noisette" in cooking refers to hazelnut, particularly in relation to flavor and aroma. In culinary contexts, it often describes dishes that incorporate a nutty flavor reminiscent of toasted hazelnuts, or when a dish is prepared in a way that highlights a hazelnut-like quality.

In some instances, "noisette" may also refer to a stage of cooking, especially when involving butter, where it is browned to develop a richer, nuttier flavor. However, these applications stem from the fundamental meaning of the word itself relating to hazelnuts. Thus, when identifying what "noisette" signifies in cooking, the connection to hazelnut aroma is paramount.