What You Need to Know
During steaming, starch granules absorb water and gelatinize while proteins denature, creating a soft matrix. Fermentation at 30–35 °C produces lactic acid and ethanol, lowering pH and generating aroma compounds such as lactones and aldehydes. Frying at 170–190 °C triggers Maillard browning and caramelization, giving the cakes a golden crust and complex flavor.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Starch gelatinization, protein denaturation, lactic acid and ethanol fermentation, Maillard browning, caramelization