Why Your Kitchen Should Always Have Citric Acid
Despite the fact that it contributes no real nutritional value to speak of, citric acid is a workhorse in the kitchen. This simple, white, granular powder is a game-changer for so many different recipes and food creations. Understanding the many benefits of citric acid can help you to appreciate why you should reach out to a local citric acid supplier today to ensure your consistent supply. Here's a look at some of the many ways that citric acid can be beneficial for you in the kitchen.
Acidity WIthout Flavor
One of the best reasons to keep citric acid in the kitchen is because it can contribute the sharpness of acidity to any recipe without altering the base flavor at all. Traditionally, citrus juice or vinegar would be the go-to source for acid in a recipe, but all of those things contribute flavors of their own to the dish. If you need to add an acidic bite to a sauce or other dish but you don't want to alter the flavor profile that you've created, a small amount of citric acid will get the job done. You'll get the acid undertone without contributing any additional flavors to the final product.
Leavening And Flavor Enhancement For Baked Goods
Citric acid should also have a place in your baking supply cabinet. Most people who bake understand that leavening is a chemical reaction, often a reaction between an acid and baking powder. The two react together, generating carbon dioxide that results in the rising effect. For many bakers, things like buttermilk serve as the acid component. However, dairy products like buttermilk aren't a good solution for vegans nor are they as shelf-stable as citric acid. A small amount of citric acid incorporated into the dry goods will net you the same result in baking without the added buttermilk.
Not to mention, for those who like sourdough breads, citric acid can help you to enhance that sharp, sour flavor of the dough when your sourdough starter hasn't matured enough yet. If you're still waiting for your starter to develop that true sour undertone, add a little bit of citric acid to your bread dough instead.
Food Preservation
Whether you're just cutting up fruit for pie or you're preparing for canning season, citric acid should be a must-have. You can add a small amount of citric acid to water for preventing browning on your fruit while you peel and cut it. You can also use citric acid to ensure consistent acidity levels for safe water bath canning when you're preserving things like tomatoes, applesauce, fresh fruits, and other things that may be right on the edge of the safe pH levels for water bath canning.
These are some of the many uses for citric acid in the kitchen. Look for a citric acid supplier near you today to ensure that you have what you need.