Cream of tartar. The name itself sounds like something from a wizard’s apothecary, doesn’t it? But in reality, it’s a humble, yet powerful ingredient found in most kitchens and especially bakeries. This fine, white powder is a byproduct of wine making and has many uses in cooking, baking, and even cleaning. So, you’ve got a recipe calling for it, or you’re embarking on a DIY project, and you’re standing in the grocery store scratching your head wondering: “Where exactly is cream of tartar hiding?” Fear not, this comprehensive guide will illuminate the path to finding this essential ingredient.
Decoding the Grocery Store: Where to Begin Your Search
Navigating the grocery store can feel like traversing a complex maze, especially when searching for a specific item. Supermarkets are carefully designed to encourage impulse buys, so often, the necessities are scattered amongst the temptations. Before we dive into specific aisle recommendations, let’s understand the general strategies for successful ingredient hunting.
First, consider the organization principles of the store. Most supermarkets group similar items together. For example, baking ingredients are usually clustered, as are spices and seasonings. Understanding this basic layout is crucial.
Next, pay attention to signage. Grocery stores typically have overhead signs clearly indicating what types of products are located in each aisle. Take a moment to scan these signs; they can be your best friend.
Finally, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Store employees are there to assist you. They know the store’s layout intimately and can quickly point you in the right direction. A friendly inquiry can save you precious time and frustration.
The Prime Suspects: Aisle Possibilities for Cream of Tartar
Now that we’ve covered the general search strategies, let’s narrow down the specific aisles where you’re most likely to find cream of tartar. There are a few key locations to investigate.
The Baking Aisle: Your Most Likely Destination
This is the most common location for cream of tartar. Grocery stores usually group baking essentials together, such as flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, extracts, and, of course, cream of tartar.
Look for it near other leavening agents like baking soda and baking powder. It’s often packaged in small jars or canisters, similar to spice containers.
Within the baking aisle, pay attention to the placement of items on the shelves. Smaller items like spices and baking aids are frequently placed at eye level or slightly above, making them easier to spot. Sometimes, stores will place these items on the bottom shelf.
The Spice Aisle: An Alternative Option
If you’re striking out in the baking aisle, the spice aisle is another possibility. Cream of tartar, while not technically a spice, is often grouped with baking spices due to its use in baking applications.
Look for it among the other spices and seasonings, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It might be shelved with other baking-related spices like ground ginger or allspice.
The spice aisle can be organized in various ways. Some stores group spices alphabetically, while others arrange them by category (e.g., baking spices, savory spices, herbs). So, keep an eye out for the grouping that best matches cream of tartar.
The International Aisle (Occasionally): A Rare Find
In some larger grocery stores with extensive international sections, cream of tartar might be found alongside other European baking ingredients. This is less common, but worth considering if you’re unable to find it elsewhere. Especially if the store has a dedicated baking section within the international foods area.
This aisle may contain items from various cuisines that use cream of tartar in traditional recipes.
Cream of Tartar: Understanding Its Role in the Kitchen
Knowing why cream of tartar is used can help you understand where it might be located in the store and inspire alternative search terms.
Stabilizing Egg Whites: A Baker’s Secret Weapon
One of the most common uses of cream of tartar is to stabilize egg whites when making meringues or soufflés. It helps to create a stiffer, more stable foam that holds its shape better.
A pinch of cream of tartar will prevent the egg whites from collapsing and keep them from becoming grainy. This is crucial for achieving the perfect, light and airy texture in these delicate desserts.
Preventing Sugar Crystallization: Smooth as Silk
Cream of tartar can also prevent sugar from crystallizing when making candies or frostings. It interferes with the formation of sugar crystals, resulting in a smoother, creamier texture.
This is particularly important when making things like fondant or caramel, where a smooth, even texture is essential.
Activating Baking Soda: A Double-Acting Boost
While cream of tartar isn’t typically used as a primary leavening agent, it can react with baking soda to create carbon dioxide, which helps baked goods rise.
This is similar to how baking powder works, which is a combination of baking soda and an acid (usually cream of tartar). This is why you’ll find it near other leavening agents.
Boosting Flavor: A Subtle Tang
In some recipes, cream of tartar is used to add a subtle tang or acidity to the flavor profile. This can balance out the sweetness of other ingredients and create a more complex flavor. It enhances the inherent sweetness of the recipe.
Beyond the Aisle: Alternative Sources for Cream of Tartar
What if you’ve scoured every aisle in the grocery store and still can’t find cream of tartar? Don’t despair! There are other options to consider.
Specialty Baking Stores: A Baker’s Paradise
If you have a specialty baking store in your area, it’s an excellent place to look for cream of tartar. These stores typically carry a wider range of baking ingredients and supplies than regular grocery stores.
They often have knowledgeable staff who can help you find exactly what you need.
Online Retailers: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Online retailers like Amazon are another convenient option. You can easily search for cream of tartar and have it delivered right to your door. This is particularly helpful if you’re having trouble finding it locally.
Make sure to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.
Bulk Food Stores: Stock Up and Save
Bulk food stores are great places to buy cream of tartar in larger quantities. This can be a more economical option if you use it frequently.
These stores often have a wide selection of baking ingredients and spices.
Health Food Stores: A Natural Alternative
Some health food stores may carry cream of tartar, especially if they have a baking section with more natural or organic ingredients.
Cream of Tartar Substitutes: When You’re in a Pinch
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you simply can’t find cream of tartar when you need it. In these situations, knowing some suitable substitutes can be a lifesaver.
Lemon Juice: A Citrusy Solution
Lemon juice is a good substitute for cream of tartar when stabilizing egg whites or preventing sugar crystallization. It adds acidity, which helps to achieve the same results.
Use about twice the amount of lemon juice as cream of tartar called for in the recipe.
White Vinegar: A Versatile Stand-In
White vinegar is another acidic substitute that can be used in a pinch. It works similarly to lemon juice in stabilizing egg whites and preventing sugar crystallization.
Use about twice the amount of white vinegar as cream of tartar called for in the recipe. Be mindful of the flavor though.
Baking Powder: A Leavening Alternative
If you’re using cream of tartar as a leavening agent in combination with baking soda, you can simply use baking powder instead. Baking powder already contains both baking soda and an acid (usually cream of tartar).
Use the amount of baking powder that is the combined amount of cream of tartar and baking soda in the recipe.
Tips and Tricks for Finding Cream of Tartar in Any Store
To further enhance your cream of tartar hunting skills, here are some additional tips and tricks:
Look for familiar brands: Major brands of spices and baking ingredients often package cream of tartar. Recognizing these brands can speed up your search.
Check the expiration date: Before purchasing cream of tartar, check the expiration date to ensure that it is still fresh.
Consider the store layout: Larger supermarkets might have multiple locations for baking ingredients, so don’t limit your search to just one aisle.
Use the store’s website or app: Many grocery stores have websites or apps that allow you to search for specific items and see their location within the store.
Conclusion: The Quest for Cream of Tartar Conquered
Finding cream of tartar doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the typical grocery store layout, knowing where to look, and having some alternative options in mind, you can confidently navigate the aisles and find this essential ingredient. Remember to check the baking aisle first, followed by the spice aisle, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from store employees. Happy baking!
What exactly is cream of tartar, and what is it used for?
Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate, is a byproduct of winemaking. It’s a powdery, acidic salt that crystallizes on the inside of wine barrels during fermentation. It’s separated, purified, and then ground into the fine white powder that you see in stores.
This versatile ingredient has a variety of uses in baking and cooking. It’s most commonly used to stabilize egg whites when whipping them for meringues, soufflés, and angel food cake, preventing them from collapsing. It also acts as a leavening agent when combined with baking soda, helping baked goods rise. Furthermore, it can prevent sugar crystals from forming in candies and frostings, resulting in a smoother texture.
Which aisle in the grocery store typically stocks cream of tartar?
The most likely place to find cream of tartar is in the spice aisle. Grocery stores usually group spices, herbs, and baking ingredients together in this area. Look for it near other baking staples like baking soda, baking powder, vanilla extract, and other common spices.
However, some stores might stock it in the baking aisle alongside flour, sugar, and other baking mixes. The layout of grocery stores can vary, so if you don’t find it immediately in the spice aisle, check the baking aisle as well. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask a store employee for assistance.
Are there any good substitutes for cream of tartar if I can’t find it?
If you’re unable to find cream of tartar, several substitutes can be used depending on its intended purpose. For stabilizing egg whites, lemon juice or white vinegar can be used. Use about ½ teaspoon of either for every egg white. They provide the acidity needed to strengthen the protein structure of the egg whites.
If you need cream of tartar as an ingredient in baking powder, you can make your own by combining 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cream of tartar. As a stabilizer in candies or frostings, a small amount of lemon juice can also work as a substitute. While the flavors will be subtly different, these substitutes often offer a workable alternative.
Can cream of tartar expire or go bad?
Cream of tartar, being a salt, has a very long shelf life. In its dry, powdered form, it does not typically spoil or go bad in the traditional sense. However, its effectiveness might diminish over time, particularly if it’s exposed to moisture or air.
While an expiration date might be printed on the container, it’s primarily a guideline for optimal quality rather than an indication of spoilage. To maintain its potency, store cream of tartar in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. If it clumps or becomes discolored, it might be losing its effectiveness, but it’s still generally safe to use.
Is cream of tartar gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, cream of tartar is naturally gluten-free. It is a pure, processed salt derived from tartaric acid, a byproduct of winemaking, and it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. This makes it safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Furthermore, cream of tartar is also vegan. As a byproduct of wine production that is then purified, it contains no animal products or derivatives, making it suitable for vegan diets. This means it can be readily included in vegan recipes without any concern.
Does cream of tartar have any health benefits?
While cream of tartar isn’t typically consumed in large quantities, it does contain potassium, an essential mineral that plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and nerve function. However, the amount of potassium in a typical serving is relatively small and shouldn’t be considered a primary source.
Historically, cream of tartar has been used as a mild laxative, but this practice is not recommended without consulting a healthcare professional due to potential side effects. Generally, cream of tartar is used primarily for its culinary properties and does not offer significant health benefits in typical dietary uses.
Can I use too much cream of tartar in a recipe?
Yes, it’s possible to use too much cream of tartar in a recipe, and doing so can affect the final outcome. Excessive amounts can impart a slightly acidic or metallic taste to the baked goods. It can also cause the texture to be overly dry or crumbly.
As a general guideline, stick to the amount specified in the recipe. Using too much in meringues, for example, could result in them becoming too stiff and prone to cracking. When used as a leavening agent, too much cream of tartar can cause an excessive rise and subsequent collapse.