Abstract
To obtain basic data for the utilization of saltwort (Salicornia herbacea L.) as a functional ingredient in steamed foam cake, the optimum component ratios for major raw ingredients (saltwort, salt, and wheat flour) as independent variables that affect the product quality were scientifically determined using RSM (response surface methodology) technique. A three-factor and five-level rotational central composite design was used for treatment arrangement. The complete design consisted of 16 experimental points. The three independent variables selected for the RSM experiment were amounts of saltwort (X$_1$, 5${\sim}$25 g), salt (X$_2$, 0${\sim}$10 g), and wheat flour (X$_3$, 470${\sim}$530 g). The optimum responses in specific gravity of the batter and volume, color, texture, and sensory evaluation result of the cake were obtained. The specific gravity and viscosity of the batter at p<0.01 was verified from the regression curve. The characteristic of the batter was influenced by all independent variables, but was extremely dependent on the amount of saltwort ordinary points of the surface responses from the batter formed the minimum points for specific gravities of the batter while viscosities of the batter appeared with the saddle points. Analysis of the response indicated that the amount of saltwort was the most influential factor over the physical properties of the cake, among the dependent variables. Ordinary points of the surface responses from the cake formed the maximum points for loaf volume, hardness gumminess, and chewiness, while Hunter colorimetric parameters appeared with the saddle points. The result indicated that level of the saltwort deviating more or less from the optimal amount decreased the volume and increased the specific gravity with less tender product. Ordinary points of the surface responses of the sensory evaluation scores from the cake formed the maximum points for appearance, flavor, softness, and overall acceptability, while color values appeared with the saddle points. The result also indicated that the level of the saltwort deviating more or less from the optimal amount reduced the preference for the product. Integration of the optimum responses common to all dependent variables that overlapped all the contour maps finally indicated that the combination of 8.3${\sim}$13.8 g saltwort, 2.5${\sim}$6.6 g salt, and 486.5${\sim}$511.5 g wheat flour under the selected preparation recipe optimized the physical and sensory properties in the teamed foam cakes. Practical preparation of the product with median amounts of the ingredients, i.e., 11.0 g saltwort, 4.6 g salt, and 499.0 g wheat flour resulted in similar qualities to the predicted responses. In conclusion, these study results indicated that preparation of steamed foam cake with added saltwort ingredient could potentially produce a more nutritious product with less salt. Further research is required to acquire the optimum levels for sub-ingredients to improve the product quality.