Molecular Gastronomy is a branch of food science that deals with the physical and chemical processes that occur during cooking. It focuses on the molecular reactions that occur between food ingredients and cooking methods. The discipline originated in the late 1990s in France and has grown in popularity ever since. Here we will discuss the basics of molecular gastronomy to help you understand the science behind your cooking.
Techniques
Molecular gastronomy techniques are often used to create unique and interesting dishes that are visually appealing and flavorful. Some of the most popular techniques include:
Sous Vide
Sous Vide (which means “under vacuum” in French) is a technique that involves cooking food in vacuum-sealed bags in a water bath at precise temperatures. By maintaining a consistent temperature, proteins and other molecules in the food cook evenly, retaining their natural moisture and flavors.
Spherification
Spherification is the process of shaping liquids into small spheres that resemble caviar. This technique is achieved by combining a liquid, such as fruit juice or vinegar, with sodium alginate and then immersing this mixture into a calcium chloride solution. The calcium in the solution reacts with the sodium alginate to form a solid outer layer around the liquid, creating small, flavorful spheres.
Foams
Foams are created by adding a gelling agent, like gelatin or carrageenan, to a liquid and then whipping it with a blender or mixer. The air is incorporated into the liquid, creating a foam with a light, airy texture. This technique is often used to create savory or sweet foams that can be used as a topping or to add texture to a dish.
Ingredients
Molecular gastronomy also focuses on the properties of ingredients that make them behave in certain ways during cooking. Some of the most commonly used ingredients in molecular gastronomy include:
Hydrocolloids
Hydrocolloids are substances that form a gel-like structure when they come in contact with water. This group of ingredients includes agar-agar, carrageenan, and gellan gum. They are often used to create gels, foams, and other textures in molecular gastronomy cooking.
Sodium Alginate
Sodium Alginate is a substance extracted from brown algae that is used to create the small caviar-like spheres in spherification. It reacts with calcium to form a jelly-like coating around the liquid.
Liquid Nitrogen
Liquid Nitrogen is commonly used in molecular gastronomy for flash-freezing ingredients, creating unique textures or as a tool for creating frozen cocktails.
Conclusion
Molecular gastronomy is an exciting field that is changing the way we think about food. By understanding the science behind ingredients and cooking techniques, we can create unique and flavorful dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. By applying these techniques and utilizing these ingredients, anyone can extend their culinary expertise and turn a simple dish into a molecular marvel.