What is the primary function of baking soda in cooking?
Correct Answer: Baking soda acts as a leavening agent.
- Step 1: Understand that baking soda is a common ingredient used in cooking and baking.
- Step 2: Learn that baking soda is a type of chemical compound, specifically sodium bicarbonate.
- Step 3: Know that baking soda needs an acid to work properly. Common acids used in recipes include vinegar, lemon juice, or yogurt.
- Step 4: When baking soda mixes with an acid, it creates a reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas.
- Step 5: This carbon dioxide gas forms bubbles in the batter or dough, causing it to rise and become fluffy.
- Step 6: This rising effect is what makes baked goods like cakes and cookies light and airy.
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