What is the purpose of the raft in consommé clarification?

• A. To trap impurities and create a clear liquid; simmer gently to maintain raft integrity.
• B. To thicken the stock by releasing starches.
• C. To color the liquid with brown hues.
• D. To flavor by seeping spices from the raft.

Answer: (A)

The raft acts as a floating filter for the clarifying process. As the consommé simmers with the raft—usually a blend of egg whites, lean ground meat, and aromatics—the proteins coagulate and rise to form a solid cap on the surface. This raft traps impurities, fat, and small particles, pulling them out of the liquid so they stay on top rather than clouding the stock. Maintaining a gentle simmer is crucial because a steady, soft boil can break the raft and release particles back into the liquid, making it cloudy again. The result is a bright, clear consommé. The raft’s job isn’t to thicken, color, or primarily flavor the liquid; its main purpose is to clarify.