INFLUENCE OF HYDROXYPROPYL METHYLCELLULOSE ON THE RHEOLOGICAL AND MICROSTRUCTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR DOUGH AND QUALITY OF PURI

Abstract

ABSTRACTPuri is a traditional unleavened fried product prepared from whole wheat flour. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) was used to study its effect on rheological characteristics of whole wheat flour dough and puri making quality. Addition of HPMC at 0.5 and 1.0% w/w increased the water absorption and dough stability whereas the resistance to extension and extensibility decreased. Pasting temperature, peak viscosity and cold paste viscosity gradually decreased. The moisture and fat contents of puri increased marginally. Quality parameters and sensory acceptability were monitored after 0 and 8 h of storage. Addition of 0.5% HPMC gave higher sensory scores. Microscopic observations during puri processing showed that the starch granules in the control dough were clearly visible in the protein matrix, which reduced on frying due to partial gelatinization. Microstructure of puri with HPMC showed higher gelatinization of starch. It also helped in moisture retention and hence, resulted in highly pliable and soft‐textured puri.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Puri is a traditional unleavened fried product that is prepared by mixing whole wheat flour and water, sheeted to a desirable thickness and fried. Use of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) affected the whole wheat flour dough and puri making quality. It helped in moisture retention and hence, resulted in highly pliable and soft‐textured puri. Microstructure of puri with HPMC showed higher gelatinization of starch.