Planning to make some baked treats but running out of baking soda? Here are 5 substitutes that work very well if you don't have baking soda in your kitchen:
Club soda or carbonated water can replace baking soda if you need it in a small amount. Although it may not work in cakes, it can be added to thinner batter recipes like waffles or pancakes.
Potassium bicarbonate can easily replace baking soda in a recipe. It has similar properties and can help give rise to cakes. Although it may change the taste slightly, salt can be added to match the taste of baking soda.
Another ingredient which can help your batter rise is whipped egg whites. Be sure to reduce the same amount of milk or liquid in the recipe to balance it.
The most popular substitute for baking soda, and often confused with baking powder can be a good substitute. Be sure to add about three times more baking powder than the quantity required of baking soda as it is milder.
A self-rising flour contains all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt. It is a good substitute as you won't need to add any rising agent. Keep in mind to follow a recipe that has self-rising flour as proportions could be significantly different.
Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand)