All about marshmallows
Sometimes you really want to eat something delicious and sweet. But what to do not to spoil your figure? It is not necessary to deny yourself this pleasure. After all, you can choose such sweets, which in small amounts will even be useful. Such treats include marshmallows.
The composition of the marshmallow
Marshmallow technology does not contain any fat, because its composition includes egg whites, fruit or berry puree, sugar and filler to hold the shape (pectin, agar-agar or gelatin). Due to this composition marshmallow contains relatively few calories. And at the same time it is rich in minerals such as iron, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium and many others. There are almost no vitamins in marshmallows, only PP and B2. They can even be a treat for children and not worry that the enamel on their teeth will start to deteriorate.
The origin of marshmallows
It is believed that the candy on the basis of which the marshmallow was invented, first began to be made in Russia, using granulated sugar and apple puree. This mixture was called marshmallow. Later, the French made their own changes to the composition and got the product that we have now. It was named after one of the winds of Greek mythology – the Zephyr. This candy got its name for its lightness and airiness. Marshmallow is now so popular that it is used not only as an independent product, but also for the preparation of various sweet dishes.
- Zephyr is a type of candy made from marshmallow, often coated in chocolate or other sweet coatings.
- The origins of zephyr candy can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where a similar confection was made from honey and nuts.
- Zephyr candy is often associated with holiday celebrations, such as Easter and Christmas, but can also be enjoyed year-round.
- The process of making zephyr involves whipping sugar and corn syrup together to create a fluffy, marshmallow-like consistency.
- Zephyr can be molded into various shapes and sizes, and is often paired with chocolate or other sweet coatings to add flavor and texture.
- In addition to being a popular snack, zephyr is also used as an ingredient in a variety of baked goods, such as cookies and cakes.
- Zephyr is typically consumed as a sweet treat, but it can also be used in savory dishes, such as as a topping for sweet potatoes or in a marinade for grilled meats.
- The word “zephyr” is derived from the Greek word for “west wind,” and is often used to describe a gentle breeze.
Types of marshmallows
Marshmallows come in different forms. It is classified according to the composition of the raw material, more precisely depending on what fruit or other product is mashed: pears, cherries, raspberries, lemons, chocolate or apples. Another marshmallow can be divided by the method of manufacture: homemade or industrial. When making sweet marshmallow bouquets, our masters offer customers to use both types of marshmallows. Homemade or made to order will cost more, but it will not contain a lot of sugar and will be much healthier than industrial marshmallows.
The benefits of marshmallows
As already mentioned, marshmallow has few calories. It belongs to the carbohydrate foods because of the large amount of glucose. Due to this composition, it has a beneficial effect on the mental work of a person of any age. Nutritionists even advise the time when eating marshmallow will bring more benefits to the body. This is from four to six in the evening. Also, marshmallow has a positive effect on the digestive system due to the content of dietary fiber. The egg white helps to satiate quickly. There are many minerals in marshmallows, such as calcium, phosphorus, iron and more. These substances are necessary for the body to function properly. Marshmallow, in the composition of which granulated sugar is replaced with fructose, can eat people who have such a disease as diabetes.
Harm of marshmallows
Marshmallow is not advised to eat people who are overweight. A large number of consumed marshmallows can badly affect the enamel of the teeth, tooth decay can occur. A large number of consumed marshmallows can cause allergies. Marshmallow of any color, with the exception of white, contains dyes, which can be very harmful to the body. Or choose marshmallow with natural dyes. But such a product has a higher price. Chocolate marshmallow is very caloric. Also, it can cause allergies because of the content of some components. People who suffer from impaired carbohydrate metabolism can harm themselves. After all, the main components of this candy are carbohydrates.
Homemade marshmallows
Naturally, the more natural products are included in the raw mass of the marshmallow, the healthier the marshmallow itself. It is very good when dyes and preservatives are used in this treat on a natural basis, when it includes nuts or pureed berries and fruits. If you are not entirely confident in the quality of marshmallow sold in the store and there is no way to check its quality, we advise you to prepare homemade marshmallows with your own hands. This will not make much trouble, especially if you will strictly follow the recipe for cooking.
First, using a mixer, you need to whip the egg whites and granulated sugar. At the same time, prepare the gelatin, using cool water. Add the thickener to the puree of some fruit. Mix all the ingredients, put in the prepared forms and put in the freezer for a quarter of an hour. After this time you are ready to use it. If desired, decorate the finished product with nuts or chocolate. The dessert is ready. Bon Appétit!