What You Need to Know
Ash provides potassium hydroxide and calcium oxide that hydrolyze hemicellulose, release bound niacin, and facilitate starch gelatinization through pH elevation (8-10). This process, called nixtamalization when using lime, shares similar chemical pathways.
Transforms hard maize into workable dough for tortillas/tamales while preventing pellagra through increased niacin absorption.
Key Parameters
Temperature
75°C
65°C - 85°C
Time
8-12 hours
4 hours - 18 hours
Equipment
Clay pots (traditional)Stainless steel (modern)Wooden paddlesMesh strainers
Steps
- 1.
Tascalate (Chiapas): Creates soluble cocoa-corn drink powder
- 2.
Pinole (Michoacán): Enables dry milling of toasted masa
The Science
Primary Reaction
Alkaline hydrolysis of cell walls