noun
- plural of pectin; natural substances found in plant cell walls that help fruits gel when cooked with sugar
Usage: biochemistry; cooking
Examples
- Pectins are naturally occurring compounds that make jam set properly.
- Apples and citrus fruits contain high levels of pectins.
- Commercial pectins are often added to low-pectin fruits when making preserves.
- The pectins in the fruit break down during the cooking process.
- Natural pectins help create the gel-like texture in homemade jelly.
- Some fruits have more pectins than others, affecting their ability to thicken.