Alcohol

Deutsch: Alkohol / Español: Alcohol / Português: Alcool / Français: Alcool / Italiano: Alcoli
In chemistry, an alcohol is an organic compound in which the hydroxyl functional group (-OH) is bound to a carbon atom. In particular, this carbon center should be saturated, having single bonds to three other atoms.
An important class of alcohols are the simple acyclic alcohols, the general formula for which is CnH2n+1OH. Of these ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is the alcohol found in alcoholic beverages; in common speech the word alcohol refers to ethanol.

In the food context, alcohol refers to a class of organic compounds that are produced by the fermentation of sugars and other carbohydrates. Alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits contain varying amounts of alcohol, and are often consumed for their taste and intoxicating effects.

Some examples of alcoholic beverages include:

• Beer: A fermented beverage made from grains such as barley and wheat, often flavored with hops.
• Wine: A fermented beverage made from grapes or other fruits, often aged in oak barrels for flavor.
• Spirits: Alcoholic beverages that are distilled from fermented grains or fruits, such as whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum.
• Cider: A fermented beverage made from apples or other fruits.
• Mead: A fermented beverage made from honey, often flavored with spices or fruits.

Similar ingredients to alcohol include:

• Non-alcoholic beverages: Beverages that do not contain alcohol, such as water, soda, and juice.
• Fermented foods: Foods that are produced by the fermentation of sugars or carbohydrates, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt.
• Vinegar: A sour liquid made from the fermentation of alcohol, often used as a condiment or ingredient in cooking.
• Yeast: A type of fungus that is used to ferment sugars in order to produce alcohol and carbon dioxide. Yeast is a key ingredient in the production of many alcoholic beverages.

Articles with 'Alcohol' in the title

• Food Trivia: Alcohol in Faroe Island, Rusdrekkasolin Landsins: Food Trivia: Alcohol in Faroe Island, Rusdrekkasolin Landsins : Although alcohol is more readily available in the Faroe Island, it is restricted by some legislations
• Rice alcohol: Rice alcohol refers to the most common local wine found in Vietnam

Weblinks

• allerwelt-lexikon.de: 'Alkohol' in the allerwelt-lexikon.de (German)
• travel-glossary.com: 'Alcohol' in the travel-glossary.com
• kriminal-lexikon.de: 'Alkohol' in the kriminal-lexikon.de (German)
• medizin-und-kosmetik.de: 'Alkohol' im Lexikon von medizin-und-kosmetik.de (German)
• umweltdatenbank.de: 'Alkohol' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)
• top500.de: 'Alcohol' in the glossary of the top500.de
• psychology-lexicon.com: 'Alcohol' in the psychology-lexicon.com

Summary

Alcohol can be used in cooking to add flavor, tenderize meat, and enhance sauces or desserts. It evaporates during the cooking process, leaving behind a unique taste that can elevate a dish. However, too much alcohol can overpower the other flavors in a recipe, so it is important to use it in moderation and allow it to simmer or bake for enough time to reduce its harsh taste. Some popular dishes that include alcohol as an ingredient are coq au vin, beer-braised short ribs, and red wine reduction sauces.

--