Cream of tartar, an often-overlooked ingredient in many kitchens, has a variety of culinary uses that can elevate your cooking and baking. Not to be mistaken with tartar sauce, cream of tartar is a white powdery substance that plays a crucial role in recipes ranging from fluffy meringues to spectacular cakes. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into what cream of tartar is, its properties, and explore the myriad of dishes that utilize this interesting ingredient.
What is Cream of Tartar?
Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate, is a byproduct of winemaking. It is formed during the fermentation of grape juice, crystallizing from tartaric acid, which is found naturally in grapes. The resulting powder is highly alkaline and has a slightly acidic taste, making it a remarkable ingredient for a variety of culinary applications.
Key Properties of Cream of Tartar
Before diving into the specific dishes that employ cream of tartar, let us explore some of its key properties that make it so beneficial in kitchens:
Stabilizing Agent
One of the primary functions of cream of tartar is its ability to stabilize egg whites. When whipped, egg whites can form bubbles, but without the right conditions, these bubbles can collapse, resulting in a less desirable texture. Cream of tartar helps maintain this stability, ensuring that your meringues and soufflés turn out light and airy.
Acidic Nature
The acidic properties of cream of tartar can help activate baking soda, thus enhancing the leavening in baked goods. This means that incorporating cream of tartar into your recipes can result in a lighter, fluffier texture.
Preventing Sugar Crystallization
When making candies or syrups, cream of tartar can help prevent the sugar from crystallizing, allowing for a smooth and glossy finish. This is particularly important in recipes like candy making or frosting preparation.
Delicious Dishes That Use Cream of Tartar
Now that we’ve established the importance of cream of tartar, let’s explore some delightful dishes that utilize this versatile ingredient.
Meringues
Meringues are a classic dessert made primarily from whipped egg whites and sugar. Adding cream of tartar to your meringue mixture serves as a stabilizing agent, ensuring that the meringue achieves the perfect volume and texture.
Simple Meringue Recipe
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar on medium speed until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat on high speed until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy. Add vanilla extract and mix gently.
- Spoon the meringue onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape as desired.
- Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the meringues are dry to the touch.
Angel Food Cake
Angel food cake is a beloved dessert known for its airy texture. Cream of tartar is a critical ingredient in this cake, as it helps to stabilize the egg whites. The result is a light, fluffy cake that is perfect for serving with fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Angel Food Cake Recipe
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 12 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, sift together the flour and 3/4 cup of sugar. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and beat until glossy, stiff peaks form. Fold in the flour mixture.
- Pour into an ungreased tube pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden.
- Inverted cooling is recommended—flip the cake upside down to cool completely before removing from the pan.
Snickerdoodles
A classic cookie, snickerdoodles are characterized by their soft texture and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating. Cream of tartar not only adds flavor but also contributes to the cookie’s unique chewy texture.
Snickerdoodle Recipe
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, blend the 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough into balls, then roll each ball in the sugar-cinnamon mixture before placing them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Other Notable Uses of Cream of Tartar
Besides baking, cream of tartar is a handy ingredient in various other culinary applications. Here are a few noteworthy mentions:
Stabilizing Whipped Cream
When making whipped cream, adding a little cream of tartar can help stabilize the cream, extending its fluffy texture for a longer period. This is especially useful for decorating cakes and desserts that need to be made in advance.
Homemade Playdough
Cream of tartar can also be used in crafting homemade playdough. Its role as a stabilizer helps to maintain the dough’s texture, making it softer and more pliable for children.
Final Thoughts
Cream of tartar is not just a pantry staple; it is a versatile ingredient that can significantly improve many dishes. From meringues and angel food cake to snickerdoodles, it serves multiple functions, including stabilization and flavor enhancement. Its role goes beyond just baking, finding applications in whipped cream stabilization and even homemade crafts. Now that you’ve explored the wonders of cream of tartar, we encourage you to experiment with this remarkable ingredient in your own recipes, discovering the delightful textures and flavors it can impart. So the next time you reach for cream of tartar, remember—this magical powder can transform your cooking and baking in ways you never imagined.
What is cream of tartar and how is it used in cooking?
Cream of tartar, chemically known as potassium bitartrate, is a byproduct of winemaking that is used primarily in cooking and baking. This fine white powder acts as an acidulant, helping to stabilize egg whites and enhance the texture of various dishes, such as creams and meringues. It also plays a crucial role in preventing sugar crystallization in recipes like candies and frostings, ensuring a smooth finish.
In addition to its stabilizing properties, cream of tartar can be used in making baking powder when combined with baking soda. Its ability to provide a slight tang to recipes also allows it to serve as a leavening agent, making it a versatile item to keep in your pantry for multiple culinary applications.
Can cream of tartar be substituted in recipes?
Yes, cream of tartar can often be substituted in recipes, although the specific replacement may depend on the desired outcome of the dish. If you are looking to stabilize egg whites for meringue or frosting, lemon juice or white vinegar can be used as a substitute. Typically, you would use a one-to-one ratio; for every teaspoon of cream of tartar, you can substitute it with the same amount of lemon juice or vinegar.
For recipes requiring its leavening abilities, consider using baking powder instead. Since baking powder already contains an acid, it can effectively replace cream of tartar in most recipes. However, you may have to adjust the amount of baking soda in the recipe as well to accentuate the proper rise in baked goods.
How can cream of tartar be used beyond baking?
Besides its common use in baking, cream of tartar has a variety of alternative applications in the kitchen. For instance, it can be combined with baking soda to create homemade baking powder, providing the necessary leavening for cakes and pastries. This versatility allows home cooks to manage ingredient availability without sacrificing the quality of their baked goods.
Moreover, cream of tartar is effective in selecting and enhancing color in certain dishes. For example, it can be used to stabilize the color of boiled vegetables, preventing them from turning dull or grey during cooking. Additionally, it can improve the texture of homemade plays or pasta, demonstrating its versatility not just in baked items but also in other culinary techniques.
Is cream of tartar safe to consume?
Yes, cream of tartar is generally safe for consumption in moderation, as it is recognized as a food additive by regulatory authorities like the FDA. However, excessive consumption can lead to potassium overload, particularly for individuals who have kidney issues or are on certain medications that affect potassium levels. It’s essential to consume it within the recommended amounts for culinary uses.
When using cream of tartar, it’s advisable to store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency and quality over time. If it’s properly stored, cream of tartar has a long shelf life, making it a convenient staple in your kitchen with minimal safety concerns.
Can cream of tartar help with cleaning?
Absolutely! Cream of tartar can serve as an effective cleaning agent due to its slightly acidic nature. When combined with vinegar or lemon juice, it can create a powerful paste that helps remove tough stains, especially on kitchen surfaces or cookware. This mixture can effectively tackle burnt-on food residues on pots and pans or clean tarnished metal utensils.
Furthermore, cream of tartar can be used to clean and deodorize various kitchen tools, including cutting boards and sinks. Simply mixing it with water to form a paste and applying it to the desired surface can yield noticeable results. Its non-toxic composition makes it an excellent natural alternative for household cleaning.
Does cream of tartar have any nutritional benefits?
Cream of tartar does contain some nutritional value, primarily in terms of minerals. It is a natural source of potassium, an essential mineral that plays a role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction in the body. Each teaspoon of cream of tartar contains about 495 milligrams of potassium, which can be beneficial when used in moderation as part of a varied diet.
However, it’s important not to rely on cream of tartar as a significant source of nutrition. While it can provide trace amounts of potassium, the overall contribution to your dietary needs will be minimal. It’s best to consume it along with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other potassium-rich foods for the greatest health benefits.
How should cream of tartar be stored for optimal use?
To ensure that cream of tartar remains effective for cooking and baking, it should be stored in an airtight container away from moisture and heat. A cool, dark cupboard or pantry is an ideal location. This storage method helps prevent clumping and preserves its potency, making it readily available for future culinary endeavors.
It’s also a good idea to check the expiration date when buying cream of tartar. While it has a long shelf life, its efficacy can diminish over time, affecting your recipes. If you notice any unusual clumping or hardening, it may be time to replace your cream of tartar for the best results in your kitchen.