Mehlschwitze (MAIL-shvit-suh) Literally “flour sweat” From Mehl (flour) + Schwitze (a “sweat” or “sweating” mixture). It’s the old-school kitchen method where flour gets cooked briefly in fat, then you whisk in liquid to thicken sauces, soups, and gravies. It's the little step that makes your dinner delicious.