Baking Soda

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a leavening agent, which means it helps baked goods rise. When baking soda is combined with an acidic ingredient, such as vinegar, yogurt, or buttermilk, it reacts and produces carbon dioxide gas bubbles.

These bubbles get trapped in the batter or dough, causing it to expand and rise as it bakes. This is why baking soda is often used in recipes for cakes, quick breads, and other baked goods that require a rising action. The reaction between the baking soda and the acidic ingredient also creates a neutralizing effect on the acidity in the recipe, this can improve flavor and texture as well as make it rise.