Description
Controlled calcium diffusion creates delayed gelation for liquid-center spheres.
Technical
Sodium alginate solution submerged in calcium bath undergoes ionotropic gelation; pH/temperature adjustments slow cross-linking of guluronic acid blocks.
Culinary Significance
Enables liquid-filled caviar pearls or bursting spheres with precise texture timing.
Science
Primary Reaction
Ionotropic gelation
Parameters
Temperature
15°C optimal
4°C to 25°C range
Time
5-10 minutes
1 minute – 30 minutes
Equipment
Syringe/dropperCalcium chloride bathpH meterPrecision scale