In the 21st century, condensed milk is an indispensable ingredient. People love it for its unsurpassed taste and multipurposeness, thanks to which it is used in many culinary delights. Condensed milk can impress not only with its delicious flavor but also a fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. Read more at new-york.name.
Condensed milk is a great dairy product produced through a unique process of removing water from fresh milk and adding sugar to preserve it. This innovative method involves heating the milk in a vacuum, causing the water to evaporate at lower temperatures. A thick creamy texture with a sweet taste is obtained in the result that has conquered the hearts of sweet tooth lovers for generations.
Due to its extensive use, condensed milk has earned its place in both sweet and savory dishes. This product is really irreplaceable in the culinary world. It is added everywhere, from delectable desserts such as pies, puddings and fondants to refreshing beverages, including Thai Iced Tea and the beloved Vietnamese Iced Coffee. But do New Yorkers know the origin of their favorite delicacy?
Difficulty in keeping milk fresh
Prior to the modern refrigerators, the storage of milk caused a severe issue because of its rapid spoilage. Farmers and dairy plants tried to distribute their products over long distances, but they were failing, which limited their access to markets. Milk often turned sour during transportation and was no longer a useful product but a spoiled one that could easily cause infections. Such a problem existed for centuries until an innovator from New York, Gail Borden, found a way to congeal milk.
Gail Borden’s innovation
Gail Borden, a smart American inventor and entrepreneur, is known for his earlier patents, including the revolutionary meat biscuits that were invented during the Texas Revolution. In the early 1850s, he began searching for a solution for milk preservation.
In 1853, Borden made a groundbreaking discovery. He found a way to curdle milk by removing water and adding sugar for natural preservation. Applying the vacuum heating method, he managed to evaporate water from steamed milk at lower temperatures, keeping it fresh. The patent for condensed milk was granted to Borden in 1856, which revolutionized the dairy industry.
In particular, when Gail returned from the London exhibition by ship in 1851, he came up with the idea to develop a method for extending the storage life of milk. During the voyage, the cows on board fell ill, but they were necessary to meet the needs of passengers and crew during the cruise. After all, the cows died, as did several children who drank the contaminated milk. The supply of milk in the country also was at risk of infection. That is why Borden became interested in developing a method of storing milk.
Founding of the New York Condensed Milk Company
Using his invention, Borden founded the New York Condensed Milk Company in 1857. This product was originally intended for soldiers but soon became an indispensable food when traveling. The demand for this sweet skyrocketed during the Civil War. New plants and factories were opened then.
From practicality to enjoyment
In addition to its practicality, condensed milk has earned its place in American kitchens due to its sweet and creamy texture. Housewives and chefs considered it as dessert. That is why cookbooks and magazines contained many new recipes. From juicy pies and puddings to the famous Vietnamese Iced Coffee, a mixture of strong coffee, ice and condensed milk. The culinary possibilities of condensed milk were limitless.
Global expansion and influence of New York
The success and growing popularity of condensed milk led to global extension, making New York a true distribution center. When immigrant communities settled in the city, they introduced their culinary traditions, including condensed milk in recipes. The impact of this product goes beyond borders and certainly enriches the diverse cuisine of the city.
The history of condensed milk in NY is evidence of human ingenuity and adaptability. From Borden’s innovative invention to the wide usage of condensed milk in kitchens around the world, it undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the cooking industry. In the 21st century, people in different corners of the world enjoy its taste in various delicacies and while eating it as it is. It remains a favorite dainty for its rich palate and nostalgic memories often associated with childhood.