Womens Thoughts

The difference between bicarbonate of soda and baking powder

Bicarbonate of soda (also known as baking soda or just soda in countries such as USA) is made form sodium bicarbonate. A reaction takes place when the bicarbonate of soda comes into contact with moisture and an acidic ingredient such as lemon juice, milk and vinegar. Bicarbonate of soda is used as a raising agent in gingerbread, parkin and cookies.

Replacing bicarbonate of soda with baking powder.

You will need to add 2 to 3 times more to the recipe. You cannot normally substitute the other way round as the acidity ingredient may will be missing.

Baking powder contains sodium bicarbonate too but also an acidic ingredient such as cream of tartar and a drying agent such as starch.
It will depend on other ingredients in a recipe as to whether bicarbonate of soda or baking powder is added. It is used as a raising agent for cakes, scones, etc. Recipes that call for the addition of baking powder may require 1-3 tsp per 225g of flour.    

How to make baking powder

Add 1 part bicarbonate of soda to 2 parts cream of tartar. 

 How to make self-raising flour

As a general guide add 2 level teaspoons of baking powder to 225g or 8oz of plain flour as a substitute for self raising flour.

Cream of Tartar 

This is also a raising agent that is used in scone and bread making. This is naturally made from fermented grapes.

Yeast

Available as fresh or dried is a raising agent mostly used in bread making. It is interchangeable, 15g or ½oz fresh yeast is equivalent to 15ml (1tbsp) of dried yeast.

Ways of using Bicarbonate of Soda around the house

Bicarb can be put to many uses around the house

It is great at absorbing smells. Pour a good covering over the affected area after having removed the offending spillage on carpets and fabrics (works well on vomit, urine, milk).

Use in the fridge to absorb unpleasant smells by placing an opened tub in the newly cleaned fridge.

Bicarb is a great environmently friendly cleaner. Remove tea and coffee stains from pots and mugs by placing a bicarb and water solution in them over night.

A paste made of bicarb and a little water can be used for cleaning paintwork around the house and for polishing your silverware.

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