Cookbook:Citric Acid

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Citric Acid
CategoryHerbs and spices

Cookbook | Recipes | Ingredients

Citric acid, also known as sour salt, is a powdered edible acid.[1]

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Like table salt, citric acid looks like small white crystals.[1][2] It is very sour, but otherwise completely neutral tasting.[1] It may also come as a solution in water.

Selection and storage[edit | edit source]

Citric acid keeps very well. Just keep it in a dry container, and it will last for years.[3]

Use[edit | edit source]

Since it is a powder with a one-dimensional flavor, citric acid is frequently used as a precise flavoring, adding sourness to food without the need to add any liquid.[1] For example, it is used in many sour candies, beverages, dressings, and more.[1][2] It can also help slow browning in some fruits and separate milk curds to make some cheeses.[3]

Substitution[edit | edit source]

In theory, lemon or lime juice could be used instead of citric acid—however, it will be imprecise in the amount of sourness it adds, and it will also add liquid to the dish.[1]

Recipes[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. a b c d e f Nast, Condé (2024-01-20). "Your Pantry Needs Citric Acid". Bon Appétit. Retrieved 2024-04-02.
  2. a b Friberg, Bo (2016-09-13). The Professional Pastry Chef: Fundamentals of Baking and Pastry. Wiley. ISBN 978-0-470-46629-2.
  3. a b "Learn About Citric Acid and How It's Used in Food". The Spruce Eats. Retrieved 2024-04-02.