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Gelling: meaning, definitions and examples

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gelling

 

[ˈdʒɛlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food preparation

Gelling refers to the process by which a liquid transforms into a gel-like state, typically as a result of the addition of gelling agents such as gelatin or pectin. This technique is commonly used in food preparation, especially in making jams, jellies, and desserts where a firm texture is desired. Gelling is essential in the canning process to preserve fruits and vegetables. The right balance of sugars, acids, and gelling agents is crucial for achieving the desired consistency.

Synonyms

coagulation, gelation, thickening.

Examples of usage

  • The gelling process is critical for making fruit preserves.
  • We waited for the gelling to occur before adding more ingredients.
  • The jelly didn't set properly due to lack of gelling agent.
Context #2 | Verb

food chemistry

To gel or gelling describes the action of a substance undergoing the transformation from liquid to gel. This can occur in various contexts, including cooking, where ingredients are combined and allowed to set into a gel-like structure. The process often involves heating and cooling as well as the addition of specific ingredients, such as gelatin, that facilitate the formation of a gel. The successful gelling of mixtures is crucial for achieving desired textures in culinary creations.

Synonyms

set, solidify, thicken.

Examples of usage

  • The chef is gelling the mixture to create a mousse.
  • Make sure the solution is cooled before gelling.
  • She is careful when gelling the dessert to avoid lumps.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Gelling occurs in food when substances like gelatin or agar are added, transforming liquids into gels.
  • Certain fruits, like pectin-rich apples, can help in gelling when making jams and jellies.
  • Temperature and acidity affect how well a mixture gels; heating and cooling can change its thickening properties.

History

  • Gelatin, a key ingredient in gelling, has been used since the 15th century, primarily for making desserts and aspics.
  • In ancient times, cooks used animal skins and bones to create gelatin, a practice that dates back thousands of years.
  • By the 19th century, gelatin became popular, leading to the mass production of jello-like products.

Culinary Arts

  • Jellied desserts became a popular trend in the 19th century, often featured in grand dinner parties.
  • Gelling is also crucial in making various products like yogurt and cheese, as it affects their texture and consistency.
  • Foams and mousses in modern gastronomy also rely on gelling agents to achieve the desired lightness and shape.

Technology

  • In biomedicine, gelling agents are used to create hydrogels, which are critical in drug delivery systems.
  • Dental materials use gelling agents to form molds for teeth, allowing for better dental impressions.
  • Researchers are exploring gelling processes for sustainable packaging, utilizing plant-based materials to create biodegradable gels.

Psychology

  • The term 'gelling' is often used metaphorically in team dynamics, referring to when group members start to work well together.
  • In social contexts, gelling can describe how relationships develop and strengthen over time, making connections feel more meaningful.
  • The speed at which teams gel can impact overall performance and morale, showcasing the importance of interpersonal dynamics.

Translations

Translations of the word "gelling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gelificação

🇮🇳 जेलिंग

🇩🇪 Gelieren

🇮🇩 penggellingan

🇺🇦 гельмування

🇵🇱 żelowanie

🇯🇵 ゼリー化

🇫🇷 gélification

🇪🇸 gelificación

🇹🇷 jelleşme

🇰🇷 겔화

🇸🇦 تجليد

🇨🇿 gelifikace

🇸🇰 gélifikácia

🇨🇳 凝胶化

🇸🇮 gelifikacija

🇮🇸 gelun

🇰🇿 гельдеу

🇬🇪 გელირება

🇦🇿 jel qatılması

🇲🇽 gelificación

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,838 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.