Yeast vs Baking powder

Saudades Active member

Member since 17 March 2013

SaudadesActive member08 October 2013 14:06:25

Hello!

I need a couple of clarifications:

1. What should i look for at the supermarket when buying yeast e.g. to make bread, pizzas.
2. What is fermento quimico em pó? and the difference from fermento biologico em pó?

Thanks

James ViP

Member since 20 June 2010

Brazil & Canada Expert

JamesViP08 October 2013 15:12:19

11272

Hi Sauadades,

Fermento biológico is yeast (usually active dry yeast) and you can buy it in any supermarket. You can also buy yeast paste in many bakeries (padaria) should you need it.

Fermento químico em pó is baking powder as we know it. The most common brand here in Brazil, as in most of the world, is Royal.

Here in Brazil, due to climatic conditions, yeast doesn't alway produce the same results as it might in other countries. I personally find that whether or not the instructions tell you it isn't necessary I always proof my yeast (add it to warm water or milk mixed with sugar) and let it form a foam before I add it.

I also find that it helps to let bread dough, etc., rise considerably longer in order to ensure the desired results.

Cheers,
William James Woodward Brazil Animator, Expat-blog Team