The Best Substitutes for Cornstarch in Baking and Cooking

Cornstarch or cornflour is a product essential for cooking and baking but cornstarch substitutes can also be used and are equally effective. Cornstarch is necessary for sauces, soups and cakes to provide a thickening or glazing quality but for many people who are allergic to cornstarch then an alternative has to be found. However, there are several suitable options that can be used with favorable results.

One of these options is all purpose flour. Two tablespoons of this flour equates to one tablespoon of cornstarch. This can be a good substitute to use to thicken soups but always ensure the blending is carried out carefully to avoid any lumps from forming. The essence of this is to ensure adequate stirring is carried out prior to simmering. All purpose flour can also be used to thicken gravies but one point to be aware of is that when refrigerated, the texture will deteriorate as this flour is not compatible to cool temperatures.

Arrowroot flour probably is a more popular cornstarch substitute as it does not possess any particular aroma and mixes perfectly in sauces and soups. By mixing one and a half teaspoons with one tablespoon of cold water this will blend together well and very quickly. It is known that over-cooking does not affect the result. In addition arrowroot provides an attractive glazed finish for dishes and can also withstand cooler temperatures without any deterioration to the food. Although arrowroot flour can be stored in air-tight containers, its thickening qualities will decrease if kept for more than a few months.

Rice or potato flour is a viable cornstarch substitute particularly if refrigeration or freezing of food is required as the food quality is not affected. However, this type of flour does not favor overcooking as it could result in thinning instead of thickening. One advantage rice flour has is that it contains no gluten and consequently does not cause digestive conditions.

A low carb alternative is unsweetened almond flour. This flour which is ground, blanched almonds contains calcium, protein, fiber, zinc, magnesium and vitamin E, to name but a few, and can be successfully used in cakes, cookies, sweet breads and many desserts. Apart from these cornstarch substitutes there are also ready made products available to suit your preference and convenience.