Baking soda

Sodium bicarbonate; needs an acid (buttermilk, vinegar, yogurt) to activate and produce CO₂ lift. Reacts immediately — get it in the oven fast. Use about 1/4 tsp per cup of flour.

Baking soda

Used for

  • cookies
  • quick breads
  • pancakes
  • cakes

In the kitchen

  • measure precisely
  • test freshness

Picking it at the store

  • Check date — it loses potency; test by dropping 1/4 tsp in vinegar: it should bubble vigorously

Related terms

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