Description
Nixtamalization is the alkaline treatment of corn that improves nutrition and texture.
Technical
The process involves heating corn in a Ca(OH)₂ or wood‑ash solution (containing K₂CO₃, Na₂CO₃, CaO) at 90–100 °C, which hydrolyzes hemicellulose, releases bound niacin, and converts bound lysine to free amino acids. The alkaline environment also solubilizes phytic acid and reduces cyanogenic glycosides, while the high pH promotes Maillard precursors for browning during cooking.
Science
Primary Reaction
Alkaline hydrolysis of hemicellulose and protein cross‑linking via Ca²⁺
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
mineralearthynuttytoasted cornalkalinesmoky (wood ash variant)
Origin & History
Civilization
Olmec, Maya, Aztec
Era