How Does Baking Soda Act as a Base in Cooking?

💡 The Answer

• Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, releases carbon dioxide when heated or mixed with an acid, causing dough to rise.
• It acts as a weak base by accepting protons from acidic ingredients like buttermilk or lemon juice.
• This neutralization reaction produces carbon dioxide gas, which creates air pockets in baked goods.
• Excess baking soda can leave a bitter taste, as the leftover base is not fully neutralized.