blanch 
/ˈblæntʃ, Brit ˈblɑ:ntʃ/ verb
blanch·es; blanched; blanch·ing /ˈblæntʃ, Brit ˈblɑ:ntʃ/ verb 1 [+ obj] : to put (food items) in boiling water or steam for a short time
▪ Blanch the potatoes before slicing them. ▪ a cup of blanched almonds 2 [no obj] : to suddenly have less color in your face because you are afraid, embarrassed, etc.
▪ She blanched and remained silent when the store owner accused her of taking the money. — often used figuratively ▪ Military leaders blanched at the thought of being asked to accept further funding cuts. [=they reacted in a way that showed they did not want to accept further cuts]
▪ Blanch the potatoes before slicing them. ▪ a cup of blanched almonds
▪ She blanched and remained silent when the store owner accused her of taking the money. — often used figuratively ▪ Military leaders blanched at the thought of being asked to accept further funding cuts. [=they reacted in a way that showed they did not want to accept further cuts]
