SALERATUS Meaning and
Definition
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Saleratus is a noun that refers to a chemical compound used as a leavening agent in baking. It is primarily composed of sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda. This white crystalline substance is often used to make dough rise during the baking process and produce a light, fluffy texture in baked goods.
Derived from the Latin term "sal æratus," meaning "aerated salt," saleratus has been used in cooking for centuries as a replacement for yeast to create a chemical reaction when combined with acids in the recipe, such as lemon juice or vinegar. The reaction releases carbon dioxide gas, which creates bubbles within the dough, causing it to expand and rise.
Historically, saleratus was widely used in the 19th century before commercial baking powder became readily available. It was particularly popular during the pioneer era in the United States, as it provided the means for producing quick breads without the need for lengthy fermentation processes.
Due to its alkaline nature, saleratus also acts as a mild alkali, helping to neutralize acidic flavors in certain recipes. However, modern baking practices have since replaced saleratus with commercial baking powder because it offers a more consistent and reliable leavening effect.
In summary, saleratus is a type of leavening agent primarily composed of sodium bicarbonate. It is used in baking to produce a rise in dough by reacting with acids in the recipe. Although it has historical significance, it is less commonly used in modern baking due to the availability of commercial baking powder.
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Sal aeratus was originally potassium bicarbonate, but the term saleratus is now applied to monosodic carbonate or sodium bicarbonate, baking soda.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• A prepared mixture of carbonate of soda and salt-used by bakers and housekeepers with cream of tartar and butter-milk for baking bread.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SALERATUS
- aaleratus
- zaleratus
- xaleratus
- daleratus
- ealeratus
- waleratus
- szleratus
- ssleratus
- swleratus
- sqleratus
- sakeratus
- saperatus
- saoeratus
- salwratus
- salsratus
- saldratus
- salrratus
- sal4ratus
- sal3ratus
- salertaus
Etymology of SALERATUS
The word "saleratus" can be traced back to Latin etymology. It originates from two Latin words: "sal" meaning salt and "aeratus" meaning aerated or carbonated. The term was first used in English around the 1800s to refer to a type of chemical leavening agent used in baking, which produces carbon dioxide gas to make dough rise. Saleratus was commonly used before modern baking soda became popular.
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