What is molecular gastronomy?
What is molecular gastronomy?
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Molecular gastronomy is a field that explores the science behind the processes of cooking. It delves into the chemical and physical transformations that occur in food when it is cooked. A prominent reaction in the culinary world, discussed in relation to molecular gastronomy, is the Maillard reaction. This reaction involves the browning of food when heated, which enhances its flavor by creating new and complex flavor compounds. For example, when you cook a steak or roast asparagus, the same fundamental chemical changes occur, leading to the brown crust and enhanced flavors associated with well-cooked food. This reaction is not just a simple change; it involves a complex cascade of chemical transformations, which vary slightly depending on the ingredients being cooked, but consistently result in the development of richer and more complex flavors 1.