Help! - Bircarbonate of Soda

[bluesky]

Just started Nigella cake recipe and need half teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, and I haven't got any!! Is there anything I can use instead, what exactly does it do to the cake? Or should I wait until I get to the shops tonight?

Its a raising agent when mixed with an acid eg lemon juice or butter milk. You might be able to get away with baking powder which is bicrb and tatric? acid (I think) mixed.

I think you might have to alter quantities if using baking powder instead.

I wouldn't think you could leave it out though...

Thanks tarantula, but the recipe is using 2 tsp of baking powder and then half teaspoon bicarb. I'm so annoyed it's one of those things that is always in the cupboard for years and years going out of date and the day I need some, I can't find any!

hmmmm, I think so too clayhead, i think I am going to measure out everything and buy some tonight. So much for being organised whilst they are at school this afternoon.