Ammonium Bicarbonate: Uses In Nutrition And A Recipe For Swedish Gingerbread Cookies

Learn about the uses of ammonium bicarbonate in nutrition, its impact on heartburn, and discover a recipe for traditional Swedish gingerbread cookies.

What is Ammonium Bicarbonate?

Ammonium bicarbonate is a chemical compound that is commonly used as a leavening agent in baking. It is also known as baker's ammonia and has been used for centuries in traditional recipes. Ammonium bicarbonate is a white powder that releases carbon dioxide gas when heated, causing dough to rise and giving baked goods a light and airy texture.

Ammonium Bicarbonate and Heartburn

Contrary to popular belief, ammonium bicarbonate does not cause heartburn. In fact, it is often used as an alternative to baking soda in recipes for individuals who experience heartburn or acid reflux. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, can sometimes exacerbate heartburn symptoms due to its high sodium content. Ammonium bicarbonate, on the other hand, is low in sodium and does not have the same effect on the digestive system.

Ammonium Bicarbonate in Nutrition

While ammonium bicarbonate is not a significant source of nutrition, it can be used in certain dietary applications. For individuals following a low-sodium diet, ammonium bicarbonate can be a suitable substitute for baking soda in recipes. It can also be used in gluten-free baking to help improve the texture and rise of baked goods.

Recipes Using Ammonium Bicarbonate

Ammonium bicarbonate is commonly used in traditional recipes, especially those from European and Scandinavian cuisines. It is often used in recipes for cookies, crackers, and other baked goods that require a light and crisp texture. Here is a simple recipe for traditional Swedish gingerbread cookies:

Ingredients:

• 250g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ammonium bicarbonate
• 100g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g brown sugar
• 3 tbsp golden syrup
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, baking soda, and ammonium bicarbonate.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the golden syrup and egg to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These gingerbread cookies are deliciously spiced and have a light and crisp texture, thanks to the use of ammonium bicarbonate. Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or as a festive treat during the holiday season!