The effect of steaming on the physical and dehulling characteristics of locust bean (Parkia biglobosa)

Abstract

Steaming locust bean in a steamer unit reduced the production time, eliminated traces of offensive odour, and improved the texture, flavour, and colour of the product. "The bean maintained a yellowish colour at the end of steaming. The moisture content of the bean was gradually increased from 46.5% to 146.3% by steaming, which improved the dehulling characteristics of the bean. A maximum of 90% dehulling at a dehulling spacing of 1.0 cm was achieved after 3.5 h of steaming.