Development of rice-based gluten-free muffins enriched with tigernut dietary fiber

The effects of tigernut dietary fiber (TDF: 5, 10, and 20% w/w) inclusion in rice muffin formulations on the functional and pasting properties of composite powders, as well as the nutritional and sensory properties of muffins were investigated. The results showed a significant (p<0.05) proportional increase in the water and oil holding capacity as TDF increased in the powder blends. Moreover, pasting viscosity was found to decrease with the inclusion of TDF. TDF muffins showed improved nutritional quality, with increased protein (~14%), insoluble fiber (~128%) and total fiber (~34%) contents compared to 100% rice muffins. Also, TDF-muffins had lower baking losses (~22%) and better texture, including firmness and chewiness. Sensory scores of TDF-muffins (up to 10% w/w) showed similar consumer acceptability for all parameters considered. Overall, this study suggests tigernut fiber as a functional additive that balances the growing consumers’ demands for healthy and quality gluten-free rice muffins.