What You Need to Know
By precisely controlling temperature and time, enzymes such as polyphenol oxidase and myrosinase are selectively inactivated or activated, enabling the conversion of chlorophyll, glucosinolates, and reducing sugars into desirable compounds. The Maillard reaction at high heat generates melanoidins that provide caramelized flavor and antioxidant activity, while lactic acid fermentation lowers pH and releases glutamate for umami.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Enzyme inactivation/activation, Maillard browning, lactic acid fermentation, pectin extraction