What You Need to Know
During roasting, the Maillard reaction between reducing sugars and amino acids generates pyrazines and other nitrogenous heterocycles that impart nutty and smoky notes. Simultaneously, caramelization of sugars and oxidation of peanut lipids produce aldehydes, ketones, and phenolic compounds that deepen the flavor. The process also releases bound lipids, reducing moisture and concentrating flavor while risking acrylamide formation if temperatures exceed 260 °C.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Maillard browning, caramelization, lipid oxidation, and pyrolysis of spice components