This Is How Marshmallows Are Really Made

Mashed6 minutes read

Americans consume around 90 million pounds of marshmallows annually, with ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, modified cornstarch, and gelatin forming the base, crucial for the fluffy texture. Homemade marshmallows offer a superior taste, involving boiling ingredients, whipping into foam, and setting the mixture, while store-bought versions exclude egg whites for a gooey texture.

Insights

  • Gelatin, sourced from collagen in connective tissues, plays a pivotal role in marshmallows, binding ingredients for texture and extending shelf life significantly.
  • The evolution of marshmallows from ancient Egypt to modern recipes showcases a transition from medicinal properties to a beloved treat, with store-bought versions omitting egg whites for mass production while marshmallow fluff retains them for a gooey consistency.

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Recent questions

  • What are the main ingredients in marshmallows?

    Sugar, corn syrup, modified cornstarch, and gelatin.

  • How are marshmallows made?

    By mixing sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin, then whipping the mixture.

  • What is the history of marshmallows?

    Originated in ancient Egypt with medicinal properties.

  • Are homemade marshmallows better than store-bought ones?

    Yes, according to experts for superior taste.

  • What is gelatin's role in making marshmallows?

    Binds ingredients, creates texture, extends shelf life.

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Summary

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"Marshmallows: A Sweet History and Process"

  • Americans consume around 90 million pounds of marshmallows annually, with ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, modified cornstarch, and gelatin forming the base, crucial for the fluffy texture.
  • Gelatin, derived from collagen in connective tissues, binds the ingredients, creating the marshmallow's texture and extending its shelf life up to 24 months.
  • Marshmallows are made by mixing sugar, corn syrup, water, and gelatin, then whipping the mixture to incorporate air and flavors before extrusion through machines for shaping.
  • Homemade marshmallows, though not cheaper, offer a superior taste according to experts, with the process involving boiling ingredients, whipping into foam, and setting the mixture.
  • Marshmallows have a long history, originating in ancient Egypt with medicinal properties, evolving from marsh-mallow plant sap to modern recipes that exclude egg whites in store-bought versions but retain them in marshmallow fluff for a gooey texture.
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