Cream of Tartar is a white powdery substance that is commonly used in baking and cooking. At 73 calories per ounce, it is a calorie-dense ingredient that adds a unique flavor to various dishes.

Cream of Tartar is known for its acidic taste and is a byproduct of wine production. It is a potassium salt that is formed when tartaric acid is partially neutralized with potassium hydroxide.

In this article, we'll explore its nutritional breakdown, its benefits, and how you can use it in different recipes.

What is Cream of Tartar?

Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate, is a white crystalline powder that is commonly used in baking and cooking. It is a natural byproduct of wine production and is obtained from the sediment of the grape juice. Cream of Tartar is commonly used as a stabilizer for beaten egg whites, helping them to hold their shape and form stiff peaks. It is also used as a leavening agent in combination with baking soda, creating a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide and helps baked goods rise. In addition to its culinary uses, Cream of Tartar is also used in some medications as an antacid and laxative.

Cream of Tartar vs Baking Powder

While Cream of Tartar and Baking Powder are both used as leavening agents in baking, they are not interchangeable. Baking Powder is a mixture of Cream of Tartar, Baking Soda, and Cornstarch. It is used to create a similar reaction to that of Cream of Tartar and Baking Soda, producing carbon dioxide and helping baked goods rise. However, using Cream of Tartar alone with Baking Soda will not produce the same effect as Baking Powder since the Cornstarch in Baking Powder also helps to absorb moisture and prevent caking. Overall, it's best to use the recommended leavening agent in your recipe for the best results.

Is Cream of Tartar Calorie-Dense?

Cream of Tartar is a calorie-dense ingredient, with 73 calories per ounce. However, it is typically used in small amounts in recipes. In addition to its caloric content, Cream of Tartar is a good source of potassium, offering 201mg per teaspoon. It also contains trace amounts of calcium and iron. While it is not a significant source of nutrition, making mindful choices when using Cream of Tartar in your recipes can help keep your overall calorie and nutrient intake in check.

The Nutritional Breakdown of Cream of Tartar

Cream of Tartar is a low-fat, low-sodium ingredient that is also cholesterol-free. One teaspoon of Cream of Tartar contains 15 calories, 4 grams of carbohydrates, and 201mg of potassium. It is also a source of calcium and iron, containing 2% and 1% of the daily value, respectively. However, it is not a significant source of any other vitamins or minerals. Overall, while Cream of Tartar is not a nutrition powerhouse, it can add flavor and additional nutrients to your recipes.

Cream of Tartar as a Food Additive

Cream of Tartar is a versatile ingredient that is used in a variety of food applications. It is commonly used in baking as a leavening agent and as a stabilizer for whipped cream and beaten egg whites. It is also used as a flavor enhancer in savory dishes, helping to balance flavors and create a more acidic taste. In some cases, it is also used as a preservative to help prevent spoilage. Overall, Cream of Tartar is a useful ingredient for home cooks and professional chefs alike, helping to elevate the flavors and textures of various dishes.

Cream of Tartar for Health Benefits

While Cream of Tartar is not a significant source of nutrition, it does offer some potential health benefits. One of its primary components, potassium, is essential for maintaining proper heart, muscle, and nerve function. Additionally, Cream of Tartar is sometimes used as a home remedy for various ailments, such as headaches, heartburn, and urinary tract infections. However, more research is needed to determine its efficacy in these applications. Overall, while Cream of Tartar is not a cure-all, it can offer some potential health benefits when used in moderation.

How to Use Cream of Tartar in Cooking and Baking

Cream of Tartar is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of cooking and baking applications. Here are some ways you can use it:

• As a leavening agent in combination with Baking Soda to create a chemical reaction and help baked goods rise.
• As a stabilizer for whipped cream and beaten egg whites.
• As a preservative to help prevent spoilage in pickled vegetables and fruits.
• As a flavor enhancer in savory dishes to balance flavors and create a more acidic taste.

Overall, Cream of Tartar is a useful ingredient that can add unique flavors and textures to various dishes.

Cream of Tartar as a Home Remedy

While Cream of Tartar is primarily used in cooking and baking, it is sometimes used as a home remedy for various ailments. Here are some ways you can use it:

• As a remedy for headaches, mix Cream of Tartar with water and drink to help relieve symptoms.
• As a treatment for heartburn, mix Cream of Tartar with baking soda and water and drink to help neutralize stomach acid.
• As a natural laxative, mix Cream of Tartar with water and drink to help promote bowel movements.
• As a remedy for urinary tract infections, mix Cream of Tartar with water and drink to help relieve symptoms.

While these remedies are sometimes used, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before using Cream of Tartar for medicinal purposes.

Substitutes for Cream of Tartar

If you don't have Cream of Tartar on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use. Here are some options:

• Vinegar - white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used in place of Cream of Tartar in a 1:1 ratio.
• Lemon juice - fresh lemon juice can also be used in place of Cream of Tartar in a 1:2 ratio (1 teaspoon of Cream of Tartar = 2 teaspoons of lemon juice).
• Baking Powder - if a leavening agent is needed, you can use baking powder in place of Cream of Tartar and Baking Soda.

Overall, these substitutes can help you achieve similar results to Cream of Tartar when you don't have it on hand.

Buying and Storing Cream of Tartar

Cream of Tartar can be found in most grocery stores and online retailers. Look for it in the spice aisle or baking section of your local store. When storing Cream of Tartar, keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It has a long shelf life of several years, but for best results, use it within a year of opening. Overall, keeping your Cream of Tartar stored properly can help maintain its quality and usefulness for all your baking and cooking needs.