Marshmallow is a delicious dessert that many people like. Small children are very fond of such a delicacy. Marshmallow was originally considered an oriental sweetness. But for a long time this product has gained popularity in Russia as well.
What is added to marshmallows?
At the beginning of the appearance of this dessert, such a stabilizer as applesauce, whipped with sugar and egg whites, was added to the marshmallows. Today, marshmallows with a variety of flavors and shapes are often found on store shelves. Everything is added to marshmallows - from cherries to pineapple. Now a small amount of oil is also added to marshmallows, and sometimes even the yolk of a chicken egg. In addition to these ingredients, the dessert includes a jelly substance such as pectin, agar-agar or gelatin.
Marshmallow containing pectin
Marshmallows made with pectin are considered the healthiest. Most often, apples are added to such a dessert. Pectin helps to increase the body's resistance to harmful factors. The beneficial properties of marshmallows containing pectin do not end there. Pectin also acts to lower blood cholesterol levels. Marshmallow cooked with pectin has a very pleasant taste and airy texture of the product. This traditional way of making dessert is the preferred one.
Marshmallow and agar-agar
Agar is taken from algae. Therefore, such a substance has a number of useful properties. For example, agar agar promotes the removal of cholesterol from the intestines. But agar-agar marshmallow also has some drawbacks. One of them is the overly sugary taste of the dessert. Not everyone will like this taste. Speaking about what marshmallows are made of, do not forget that the huge amount of carbohydrates contained in it promotes the release of large amounts of insulin and the deposition of excess sugar in fat stores.
Marshmallow with gelatin
Sometimes gelatin is used as a thickener in marshmallows. This substance contains a large number of amino acids, which is why, at first glance, gelatin may seem quite useful. After all, these amino acids are essential for the functioning of certain body systems. The consistency of this type of marshmallow is more dense, and in taste it is inferior to marshmallow with agar-agar and pectin. Depending on the composition of the marshmallow, its taste changes. Therefore, when choosing a marshmallow, it is important to pay attention to its composition. You should also look at the color of the finished product. Natural marshmallows are usually white or creamy in color. The arc color of the marshmallow indicates the presence of dyes in the dessert.
Who can eat marshmallows?
Marshmallow is contraindicated for people with diabetes. For the rest of the categories of people, marshmallows cannot do any harm. Marshmallows are legal and often served in kindergartens, schools, and other childcare settings. This indicates a large number of useful properties of the product. Plus, usually only natural products and substances are added to marshmallows.