What is the difference of plain flour and self raising flour?

Plain flour, also known as all-purpose flour, is a flour made from wheat that has been finely ground. It is the most common type of flour used in baking and can be used in a variety of recipes, from cakes to cookies to breads.

Self-raising flour is a type of flour that has baking powder and salt added to it. It is a convenient option for baking, as you can skip adding these ingredients separately when making certain recipes. Self-raising flour is often used in recipes that require a lighter texture, such as cakes and muffins.

Here are the key differences between plain flour and self-raising flour:

* Composition: Plain flour is made from finely ground wheat, while self-raising flour has baking powder and salt added to it.

* Usage: Plain flour is more versatile and can be used in a wider variety of recipes, while self-raising flour is best suited for recipes that require a lighter texture, such as cakes and muffins.

* Leavening agents: Plain flour does not contain any leavening agents, so you will need to add baking powder or yeast when making recipes that require them. Self-raising flour already has leavening agents added, so you don't need to add any extra.

* Baking time: Because self-raising flour has baking powder added, recipes made with self-raising flour may rise more quickly than those made with plain flour.

Overall, while both plain flour and self-raising flour are made from wheat, they differ in their composition and the presence of leavening agents. The type of flour you choose to use in a recipe will depend on the desired texture and the ingredients you are using.