Category: Ingredient Spotlight

TL;DR Introduction The sizzle of beef hitting a scorching hot grill. The mouthwatering aroma wafting through the air. The first bite that melts in your mouth, releasing a burst of rich,…

TL;DR Chocolate bloom is a harmless, natural phenomenon that affects the appearance and texture of chocolate There are two types of bloom: fat bloom (whitish film) and sugar bloom (dusty coating)…

TL;DR Caramelization is the process of browning sugar, creating complex flavors and aromas Different sugars caramelize at different temperatures, with fructose starting at 230°F (110°C) Caramelization occurs best in neutral pH…

TL;DR Yogurt is a fermented dairy product with a pH typically ranging from 4.0 to 4.8 Greek yogurt represented approximately 51% of the U.S. yogurt market in 2021 The average person…

TL;DR Poutine is a Canadian dish originating from Quebec in the late 1950s, consisting of french fries, cheese curds, and gravy. The exact origin of poutine is disputed, with claims from…

TL;DR Nama shoyu is an unpasteurized, raw soy sauce with a complex flavor profile It contains live enzymes and microorganisms, allowing for continued flavor development Nama shoyu is less salty and…

TL;DR Convection ovens use fans to circulate hot air, cooking food up to 25% faster and more evenly than traditional ovens Convection cooking requires lower temperatures (typically 25°F less) and shorter…

TL;DR Larding is a culinary technique that involves inserting thin strips of fat into lean meat to keep it moist during cooking. The process uses a special tool called a larding…

TL;DR Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green, low in calories but high in vitamins A, C, and K It contains compounds that may help reduce the risk of heart disease and…

TL;DR Avocado oil is extracted directly from the fruit, not the seed, and is rich in monounsaturated fats. It has a high smoke point of 520°F (271°C), making it ideal for…

TL;DR Convection cooking uses circulating hot air to cook food more evenly and quickly Convection ovens can reduce cooking times by up to 25% compared to conventional ovens When using convection,…

TL;DR Bohnenkraut (Satureja hortensis) is a versatile herb belonging to the mint family It has a unique flavor profile combining notes of thyme, oregano, and pepper Bohnenkraut is widely used in…

TL;DR Polenta is a versatile dish made from coarsely ground cornmeal, typically using flint corn for its distinctive texture. The word “polenta” has Latin origins and the dish has spread beyond…

TL;DR Baking powder is a leavening agent composed of baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch Double-acting baking powder reacts twice: when mixed with liquid and when exposed to heat The…

TL;DR Perpetual stew is a cooking method where a pot of stew or soup is kept simmering indefinitely, with ingredients added as needed and broth reused daily The concept has historical…