•Stabilizing egg whites: Cream of tartar is often used when whipping egg whites to stabilize them and increase their volume. It helps the egg whites form a firmer foam, which is especially useful when making meringues, soufflés, and angel food cake.
•Preventing crystallization: When making syrups, frostings, or candies like caramel, adding a small amount of cream of tartar can prevent sugar from crystallizing, resulting in a smoother texture.
•Activating baking soda: Cream of tartar is acidic, so when combined with baking soda, it creates carbon dioxide gas, which helps baked goods rise. This reaction is particularly useful in recipes that don't contain acidic ingredients like buttermilk or yogurt.
•Brightening boiled vegetables: Adding a small amount of cream of tartar to the water when boiling vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes can help preserve their natural color and keep them looking vibrant.
•Cleaning and polishing: Cream of tartar mixed with a bit of water can be used as a gentle abrasive cleaner for kitchen surfaces, cookware, and even silverware.