What You Need to Know
Hydrocolloids act as polysaccharide gels that replace the viscoelastic network of gluten by forming water‑binding matrices and heat‑induced films. Proper selection of type, concentration, and hydration temperature controls dough rheology, gas retention, and crumb texture, while baking activates thermoreversible gelation (e.g., HPMC) to set the final structure. These polysaccharides interact with starch and proteins, forming a viscoelastic network that mimics gluten’s elasticity and extensibility.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Thermally induced gelation of hydrocolloids