Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate or potassium hydrogen tartrate, is a white, powdery, acidic byproduct of winemaking. It’s the sediment left behind in wine barrels after fermentation and is purified for various uses, making it a versatile ingredient beyond its humble origins. While often relegated to the back of the spice rack, cream of tartar boasts a wide array of applications in baking, cooking, cleaning, and even crafting. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of this unassuming powder and explore its myriad uses.
Cream of Tartar in Baking: The Magic Ingredient
Cream of tartar is a baker’s best-kept secret, enhancing the texture and stability of various baked goods. It’s often used in conjunction with other ingredients to achieve specific results, making it more than just a passive addition to a recipe.
Stabilizing Egg Whites: Achieving Sky-High Peaks
One of the most well-known uses of cream of tartar is its ability to stabilize egg whites. When egg whites are beaten, they form delicate air bubbles. These bubbles are what give meringues, soufflés, and angel food cakes their light and airy texture. Cream of tartar helps to prevent these bubbles from collapsing, resulting in a more stable and voluminous foam. It does this by lowering the pH of the egg whites, which increases their protein denaturation and makes them less likely to break down. A pinch of cream of tartar added to egg whites before beating can make a significant difference in the final product, resulting in glossy, stiff peaks that hold their shape beautifully.
Increasing Volume and Softness: A Baker’s Dream
Beyond stabilizing egg whites, cream of tartar also contributes to the overall volume and softness of baked goods. In cakes and cookies, it can help to create a finer crumb and a more tender texture. This is because cream of tartar interferes with the gluten development in the flour. Gluten is a protein that gives dough its elasticity and structure. By inhibiting gluten formation, cream of tartar prevents baked goods from becoming too tough or chewy. It essentially contributes to a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Preventing Sugar Crystallization: A Smooth Operator
Another crucial role of cream of tartar in baking is preventing sugar crystallization. This is particularly important when making candies, syrups, and frostings. Sugar crystals can form when sugar molecules clump together, resulting in a grainy or gritty texture. Cream of tartar helps to prevent this by interfering with the crystallization process, ensuring a smooth and velvety final product. It essentially keeps the sugar molecules dispersed, preventing them from binding together and forming unwanted crystals. This makes cream of tartar indispensable for achieving perfectly smooth fudge, silky caramels, and flawless frostings.
Activating Baking Soda: The Leavening Powerhouse
Cream of tartar is an acidic ingredient, and when combined with baking soda (an alkaline ingredient), it creates a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. This gas is what leavens baked goods, causing them to rise. Many baking powder recipes actually include cream of tartar as a key component. This reaction is essential for achieving the desired rise and texture in many cakes, cookies, and other baked treats. Without an acid like cream of tartar, baking soda would not be able to fully activate and leaven the batter effectively.
Beyond Baking: Culinary Uses of Cream of Tartar
The uses of cream of tartar extend far beyond the realm of baking. Its unique properties make it a valuable asset in various culinary applications, enhancing flavor and improving texture.
Stabilizing Whipped Cream: The Perfect Topping
Just as it stabilizes egg whites, cream of tartar can also stabilize whipped cream. A pinch of cream of tartar added to heavy cream before whipping helps to prevent it from separating and becoming grainy. This is particularly useful when making whipped cream ahead of time or when using it as a topping that needs to hold its shape for an extended period. The cream of tartar interacts with the proteins in the cream, creating a more stable emulsion that prevents the fat molecules from separating from the liquid. The result is a smooth, fluffy, and long-lasting whipped cream that is perfect for topping desserts, beverages, and more.
Adding a Tangy Flavor: A Subtle Zest
Cream of tartar has a slightly acidic, tangy flavor that can enhance the taste of certain dishes. It’s often used to add a subtle zest to sauces, dressings, and even some savory dishes. The acidity helps to balance out sweetness and richness, creating a more complex and flavorful profile. For example, a pinch of cream of tartar can brighten up a heavy cheese sauce or add a zing to a homemade vinaigrette. It’s a subtle way to elevate the flavor of your dishes without overpowering other ingredients.
Preserving Vegetable Color: Keeping Greens Vibrant
Cream of tartar can also be used to help preserve the vibrant color of vegetables during cooking. Green vegetables, in particular, tend to lose their color when boiled or steamed. Adding a small amount of cream of tartar to the cooking water can help to prevent this discoloration, keeping the vegetables looking fresh and appealing. The cream of tartar helps to stabilize the chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the green color, preventing it from breaking down during the cooking process.
Cleaning with Cream of Tartar: A Natural Solution
Cream of tartar is not just for cooking; it’s also a powerful and natural cleaning agent. Its mild acidity makes it effective at removing stains, polishing metals, and tackling various household cleaning tasks.
Removing Stains: A Gentle but Effective Cleaner
Cream of tartar can be used to remove a variety of stains from different surfaces. Its slightly abrasive texture helps to lift stains without damaging the underlying material. For example, it can be used to remove stains from porcelain sinks and bathtubs, as well as rust stains from metal surfaces. To use it as a stain remover, simply make a paste of cream of tartar and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away.
Polishing Metals: Bringing Back the Shine
Cream of tartar is an excellent metal polish, capable of restoring the shine to copper, brass, and other metals. Its gentle abrasiveness helps to remove tarnish and oxidation, revealing the bright, clean surface underneath. To polish metal with cream of tartar, make a paste with water or lemon juice, apply it to the metal surface, and rub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly and dry to reveal a gleaming finish.
Cleaning Appliances: A Safe and Effective Option
Cream of tartar can also be used to clean various appliances, such as coffee makers and ovens. Its natural properties make it a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemical cleaners. To clean a coffee maker, add a tablespoon of cream of tartar to the water reservoir and run a brewing cycle. Then, rinse the coffee maker thoroughly with clean water. To clean an oven, make a paste of cream of tartar and water, spread it over the oven surfaces, and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Then, wipe away the paste and any grime with a damp cloth.
Other Uses of Cream of Tartar: Beyond the Ordinary
The versatility of cream of tartar extends beyond culinary and cleaning applications. It also finds use in various other areas, showcasing its diverse properties.
Crafting and Art Projects: A Versatile Medium
Cream of tartar can be incorporated into various crafting and art projects. For example, it can be used as an ingredient in homemade playdough, providing a smooth and pliable texture. It can also be used to create unique effects in paint and other art mediums. Its ability to stabilize and bind ingredients makes it a valuable addition to many creative endeavors.
Medicinal Uses (Traditional): A Historical Perspective
Historically, cream of tartar has been used for various medicinal purposes. It was sometimes used as a mild laxative or diuretic. However, it’s crucial to note that these uses are based on traditional practices and are not supported by extensive scientific evidence. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using cream of tartar for any medicinal purpose. Self-treating with cream of tartar can be harmful, and it’s essential to seek guidance from a qualified medical practitioner.
Gardening Applications: An Emerging Area
While not widely known, some gardeners are exploring the potential uses of cream of tartar in the garden. It is believed to help acidify the soil, which can benefit certain plants like blueberries and azaleas. This is a very specific use case and should be approached with caution and proper research as it could harm other plants that prefer alkaline soils.
In conclusion, cream of tartar is a truly versatile ingredient with a wide range of uses. From stabilizing egg whites and preventing sugar crystallization in baking to cleaning and polishing various surfaces, this unassuming powder is a valuable asset in any home. Its natural properties and effectiveness make it a popular choice for those seeking a safe and reliable alternative to harsh chemicals.
What exactly is cream of tartar and where does it come from?
Cream of tartar, scientifically known as potassium bitartrate or potassium hydrogen tartrate, is a byproduct of winemaking. As grapes ferment, tartaric acid precipitates out and forms crystals inside the wine barrels. These crystals are collected, purified, and ground into a fine white powder, which we know as cream of tartar.
Essentially, cream of tartar is a naturally occurring acid salt. It’s not creamy, despite its name; the “cream” refers to the cream-like appearance of the tartrate crystals before processing. Its acidic properties make it a versatile ingredient in both cooking and cleaning.
How does cream of tartar contribute to baking, specifically with egg whites?
In baking, cream of tartar acts as a stabilizer for egg whites. When added to egg whites before whipping, it helps to create a more stable foam that is less likely to collapse. This results in meringues, soufflés, and angel food cakes that are taller, lighter, and have a smoother texture. It also helps to prevent the egg whites from becoming grainy.
Furthermore, cream of tartar lowers the pH of the egg whites, making them more resistant to over-beating. This gives bakers a wider margin for error and helps to achieve the desired stiffness in the meringue. It essentially enhances the structure and stability of the egg white foam.
Can I substitute cream of tartar with something else in a recipe?
Yes, there are several substitutes for cream of tartar, although the results may vary slightly depending on the specific recipe. A common substitute is lemon juice or white vinegar. For every ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar called for, use 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar.
Another option is baking powder, which already contains cream of tartar as one of its ingredients. However, using baking powder will also add baking soda to the recipe, so you’ll need to adjust the other ingredients accordingly, particularly if the recipe doesn’t already call for baking powder. A suitable ratio is ½ teaspoon of baking powder for every ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar, omitting any baking soda originally called for.
Besides baking, what other culinary uses does cream of tartar have?
Beyond stabilizing egg whites, cream of tartar is often used to prevent sugar from crystallizing when making candies and frostings. A small amount added to the sugar syrup helps to create a smoother, less grainy texture. It’s particularly useful when making caramels, fondant, and simple syrups.
Additionally, it can be used to activate baking soda. When combined with baking soda and a liquid, it creates carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise. This is essentially how baking powder works. It can also enhance the flavor of certain vegetables, like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts, by reducing their bitterness.
Is cream of tartar safe for consumption? Are there any side effects?
Cream of tartar is generally considered safe for consumption in small amounts as used in baking and cooking. It is a naturally occurring substance and not known to be toxic. However, consuming very large quantities may have some mild side effects.
Excessive consumption of cream of tartar can act as a laxative due to its potassium content. This can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Also, individuals with kidney problems or those on potassium-restricted diets should consult with a healthcare professional before regularly consuming cream of tartar.
Can cream of tartar be used for cleaning purposes? How effective is it?
Yes, cream of tartar is a surprisingly effective natural cleaning agent. Its mild acidity makes it ideal for removing stains and tarnish from various surfaces. It’s particularly useful for cleaning copper, brass, and stainless steel.
To clean with cream of tartar, create a paste by mixing it with a small amount of water or lemon juice. Apply the paste to the stained or tarnished surface, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth. It can also be used to clean bathtubs, sinks, and even clothing stains.
How should I store cream of tartar to maintain its potency?
To maintain its potency, cream of tartar should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Exposure to humidity can cause it to clump together, although this doesn’t necessarily affect its effectiveness, it can make it more difficult to measure.
Properly stored, cream of tartar has a long shelf life and can remain effective for several years. Check for any signs of discoloration or a noticeable odor, although these are rare. The primary concern is preventing moisture absorption, so ensure the container is tightly sealed after each use.