What You Need to Know
At 55–65 °C, endogenous cathepsins cleave myofibrillar proteins, softening muscle fibers without denaturation. Simultaneously, collagen hydrolyzes to gelatin, enhancing mouthfeel. Salt and mild acidity promote flavor diffusion and inhibit microbial growth, while temperatures below 65 °C prevent Maillard reactions and volatile loss.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Proteolysis via cathepsins and collagen gelatinization