What You Need to Know
Sodium alginate (polyuronate) undergoes ion exchange with calcium ions, forming insoluble calcium alginate matrix via egg-box model crosslinking at room temperature.
Enables liquid-center spheres with burst-in-mouth texture, revolutionizing modernist plating techniques.
Key Parameters
Temperature
20°C
10°C - 30°C
Time
90 seconds
30 seconds - 3 minutes
Equipment
Precision scale (0.01g)Immersion blenderPeristaltic pump (for consistent sizing)Slotted spoon
Steps
- 1.
Liquid Olive (elBulli): Encapsulates olive essence while maintaining spherical morphology
- 2.
Ravioli Without Pasta (WD-50): Creates edible membrane replacing traditional dough
The Science
Primary Reaction
Ionic crosslinking