1.
When was salted caramel first created?
Correct Answer
B. 1977
Explanation
Salted caramel, created in 1977 by French pastry chef Henri Le Roux, is a sublime blend of sweetness and a hint of salt, which quickly rose to fame for its delightful balance. Le Roux's creation was not just a culinary innovation but also a cultural phenomenon, transforming the way people perceive and enjoy caramel by enhancing the traditional recipe with a touch of salt, which accentuates its rich, sugary base.
2.
What temperature does sugar reach to make caramel sauce?
Correct Answer
C. 170 °C
Explanation
To craft caramel sauce, sugar must be heated to approximately 170 °C. At this temperature, sugar undergoes a chemical transformation known as caramelization, where it breaks down and re-forms into new compounds. These compounds provide caramel its deep, rich color and complex flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly bitter, making it a favorite ingredient in various culinary delights.
3.
Where was the "Best confectionery in France" awarded to salted caramel?
Correct Answer
B. Paris
Explanation
In 1980, the salted caramel concoction of Henri Le Roux was honored as the "Best confectionery in France" at the Paris Salon International de la Confiserie. This accolade was a testament to its unique flavor and texture that stood out among traditional sweets, marking it as a groundbreaking addition to the confectionary world.
4.
Who created salted caramel?
Correct Answer
B. Henri Le Roux
Explanation
Henri Le Roux's ingenious inclusion of Breton demi-sel butter and crushed nuts in his salted caramel recipe in 1977 marked a revolutionary moment in candy making. This innovation not only enhanced the flavor complexity but also introduced a savory element to the candy, making it an instant classic in the world of gourmet sweets.
5.
What is added to caramel to make it a sauce?
Correct Answer
B. Cream
Explanation
Adding cream to caramelized sugar is the critical step in making caramel sauce, which transforms it into a smooth, rich topping perfect for enhancing desserts. The cream interacts with the warm caramelized sugar, cooling it down and creating a luscious, velvety sauce that drapes beautifully over desserts like ice cream and cakes, adding a decadent touch.
6.
How is caramel sauce traditionally made?
Correct Answer
C. By mixing caramelized sugar with cream
Explanation
Caramel sauce, a combination of caramelized sugar and cream, serves as a versatile topping for numerous desserts. Its creamy consistency and rich, buttery flavor make it an ideal complement to a variety of sweet dishes, enhancing everything from simple ice cream sundaes to elaborate pastries, enriching them with its deep, caramelized tones.
7.
What is caramel primarily used for in desserts?
Correct Answer
A. As a topping
Explanation
Caramel is primarily employed as a topping in various desserts, where it adds a luxurious, sweet flavor that complements the base elements of the dishes. It is especially popular in applications such as drizzling over ice cream or enhancing the richness of custards and puddings, where its gooey texture and rich taste elevate the overall dessert experience.
8.
Which ingredient is not typically added early in the cooking process of caramel candy?
Correct Answer
D. Vanilla
Explanation
In the preparation of caramel candy, vanilla is added at the final stage of cooking. This timing is crucial as adding it too early would expose the vanilla to high temperatures, leading to evaporation and loss of its delicate flavor. By adding it at the end, the vanilla imparts its full aromatic essence to the caramel, enriching it with a smooth, fragrant flavor.
9.
What additional ingredients can be used in caramel sauce?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Caramel sauce can be customized with various additions like fruit purees, liquors, and vanilla, each contributing unique flavors that can transform the basic sauce into something extraordinary. These ingredients are mixed in after the caramelization process, allowing their flavors to meld perfectly without compromising their integrity, creating a versatile sauce that can suit a wide range of desserts.
10.
When is Caramel Day celebrated?
Correct Answer
A. 5 Apr
Explanation
Caramel Day, celebrated on April 5, is a special day dedicated to appreciating and enjoying caramel in its many forms. It's a day when caramel lovers indulge in their favorite caramel-based confections and explore new ways to enjoy this versatile and beloved sweet treat, celebrating its rich history and the joy it brings into our lives.