64 questions and answers in this section
Explain why chilling the butter before working it into puff pastry dough ensures a better texture.

Explain why chilling the butter before working it into puff pastry dough ensures a better texture.

Using cold butter when preparing puff pastry makes it easier to create thin and even layers. When the butter is well-chilled, it remains solid and...

Read full answer

Explain why meat becomes more tender when it is marinated?

Explain why meat becomes more tender when it is marinated?

The marinade mainly works by modifying the protein structure of the meat. Marinades made with acids like lemon, vinegar, or wine affect the proteins by...

Read full answer

Explain why letting the pizza dough rest in the refrigerator improves its texture and taste?

Explain why letting the pizza dough rest in the refrigerator improves its texture and taste?

Putting the pizza dough in the fridge triggers a slow fermentation, thanks to the yeast that works gently at low temperatures. This allows the flour...

Read full answer

Explain why adding a squeeze of lemon juice on cut fruits prevents them from browning?

Explain why adding a squeeze of lemon juice on cut fruits prevents them from browning?

When certain fruits like apples or pears are cut, the plant cells are damaged. This degradation releases an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase (or PPO). This...

Read full answer

Explain why shrimp change color when cooked.

Explain why shrimp change color when cooked.

Raw shrimp owe their gray or bluish color to a pigment called astaxanthin. This pigment belongs to the family of carotenoids, the same one that...

Read full answer

Explain why it is recommended to eat locally to discover culinary culture while traveling?

Explain why it is recommended to eat locally to discover culinary culture while traveling?

Tasting local dishes is a direct dive into the culture of a country. Each bite reveals unique and authentic flavors that are impossible to find...

Read full answer

Explain why spices are so important in certain culinary traditions?

Explain why spices are so important in certain culinary traditions?

Since ancient times, spices such as pepper, cinnamon, and cloves were highly sought after. Back then, they were so rare that they often served as...

Read full answer

Explain why using baking powder instead of baker's yeast in some cakes ensures a light texture.

Explain why using baking powder instead of baker's yeast in some cakes ensures a light texture.

Baking powder, often referred to as leavening powder, consists mainly of three components: a basic agent, usually sodium bicarbonate, an acidic agent such as tartaric...

Read full answer

Explain why some foods are considered aphrodisiacs?

Explain why some foods are considered aphrodisiacs?

Since antiquity, certain foods have been reputed to stimulate sexual desire all around the world. Both the Egyptians and the ancient Greeks had already identified...

Read full answer

Explain why white chocolate is not really chocolate.

Explain why white chocolate is not really chocolate.

White chocolate stands out due to the complete absence of cocoa solids, which are present in significant amounts in milk or dark chocolates. Instead, it...

Read full answer