What Do You Use Cornstarch For?
Cornstarch has a variety of uses in cooking and household tasks.
It can be used as an egg substitute in baked goods, such as cookies, cakes, and breads.
It can also be mixed with an egg to make fluffy omelets.
Cornstarch is commonly added to waffle mix to make crispy waffles and can be combined with all-purpose flour and baking powder to create a substitute for cake flour.
Additionally, cornstarch is often used to thicken sauces by creating a “slurry” and adding it to simmering liquid.
It is also used to create a thick consistency in fruit pie fillings.
Furthermore, cornstarch can be used to reduce friction on knots, as a coating for gluten-free fried foods, and to remove grease splatters from walls or kitchen backsplash.
Other uses include dusting the counter for rolling out fondant, polishing silverware with a paste made from cornstarch and water, and making homemade slime with cornstarch, water, glitter, or food coloring.
Quick Tips and Facts:
1. Cornstarch was not originally intended for cooking purposes. It was actually used as a substitute for laundry starch in the 19th century.
2. Cornstarch can be used as a natural remedy for sunburn relief. Mixing it with cold water to create a paste and applying it to the affected area can help soothe the skin.
3. In addition to culinary uses, cornstarch can also be utilized for crafting. It is commonly used to create homemade playdough as it provides a smooth texture and helps maintain elasticity.
4. Cornstarch has a unique property known as “shear thinning,” which means it becomes more liquid-like when agitated or stirred. This property is beneficial in various applications, including the production of paints, glues, and cosmetic products.
5. Surprisingly, cornstarch can be employed as a natural dry shampoo. By sprinkling a small amount on the roots and brushing it through the hair, it absorbs excess oil and adds volume, giving the hair a refreshed look.
Cornstarch As An Egg Substitute In Baking
Cornstarch, a versatile ingredient commonly found in every household’s pantry, offers a multitude of uses beyond its conventional role as a thickener. One of its lesser-known applications is as an egg substitute in baking recipes such as cookies, cakes, or breads.
By mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with three tablespoons of warm water, it can mimic the binding properties of eggs, resulting in a delicious batch of treats suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.
This cornstarch “slurry” can then be used as a one-to-one substitute for eggs in recipes. Not only does it provide the necessary binding agents, but it also adds a lightness and fluffiness often associated with traditional baked goods.
Fluffy Omelets With Cornstarch
When it comes to creating the perfect omelet, incorporating a pinch of cornstarch can make a significant difference. By adding this secret ingredient to beaten eggs, you can elevate your fluffy breakfast staple into a truly exquisite masterpiece.
To achieve this culinary marvel, start by whisking together the eggs until they reach a smooth consistency. Then, lightly sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch over the beaten eggs, ensuring an even distribution. The cornstarch acts as a binding agent, capturing air pockets and resulting in an omelet that is tender, airy, and satisfyingly fluffy. With the addition of cornstarch, your breakfast experience will reach new heights of deliciousness.
Crispy Waffles With Cornstarch
To enhance the texture and flavor of your waffles, consider adding cornstarch to your batter. By incorporating a tablespoon or two of cornstarch into your favorite waffle mix, you can achieve a delightful crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. This simple technique will take your waffle game to the next level, leaving your taste buds dancing with joy. Prepare your waffle mix as usual, ensuring it is well combined, and then sprinkle in the cornstarch. The cornstarch’s unique ability to crisp up the outer layer while maintaining softness on the inside creates a breakfast treat that is simply irresistible.
Substitute For Cake Flour With Cornstarch
When you are in the mood to bake a delectable cake, but find your pantry lacking cake flour, fear not! Cornstarch can come to the rescue by providing a simple substitute that will have your cake turn out just as light and fluffy as if you had used the real thing.
To create a substitute for cake flour using cornstarch, combine one cup of all-purpose flour with two tablespoons of cornstarch and one and a half teaspoons of baking powder. Sift this mixture multiple times to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The result is a homemade cake flour substitute that will rival the texture and tenderness achieved with traditional cake flour. Now you can proceed with your baking plans without any worry.
Thickening Sauces With Cornstarch
One of the most well-known uses for cornstarch in the culinary world is its ability to thicken sauces and gravies. This versatile ingredient, with its remarkable thickening power, can rescue even the thinnest of sauces from a watery fate.
To employ cornstarch as a thickening agent for sauces, first create a slurry by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold broth or water. Make sure to whisk the slurry until it becomes smooth and free of lumps. Then, slowly pour the slurry into the simmering liquid, whether it be a savory sauce or a delicious gravy, while continuously stirring. As the slurry reaches its boiling point, it will activate the cornstarch’s thickening abilities, resulting in a luscious, glossy sauce that will complement your dishes perfectly.
Creating Thick Fruit Pie Fillings With Cornstarch
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a slice of fruit pie with a perfectly thick filling. Enter cornstarch, the unsung hero that enables you to achieve dreamy pie fillings that are bursting with flavor and texture.
To create a thick fruit pie filling with cornstarch, follow these steps:
- Start by preparing your favorite fruit mixture, ensuring it is well-combined.
- Next, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of cornstarch over the mixture and gently toss the fruit until the cornstarch is evenly distributed.
- As the pie bakes, the cornstarch will absorb the fruit’s juices, creating a luscious, thickened filling that won’t run or become overly liquid.
With cornstarch, you can achieve the perfect consistency that will leave your family and friends begging for seconds.
“Cornstarch deserves recognition beyond its conventional role as a thickener.”
In conclusion, cornstarch is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your culinary endeavors. It can be used to create light and fluffy baked goods, crispy waffles, and delectable sauces and pie fillings. Its ability to deliver outstanding results makes it an indispensable ingredient in any kitchen. So the next time you reach for cornstarch, remember its surprising applications and unlock a world of culinary possibilities.
- Cornstarch ensures a perfectly thick fruit pie filling
- It absorbs the fruit’s juices, creating a luscious texture
- Can be used in various culinary recipes
Frequently Asked Questions
What can corn starch be used for?
In addition to its various culinary uses, corn starch can also be utilized in non-food applications. One such application is as a cleaning agent for carpets and upholstery. Its absorbent properties make it effective in absorbing and removing stains and spills from fabric surfaces. Additionally, corn starch can also be used as a natural alternative to talcum powder or baby powder, providing a gentle and smooth texture for dusting purposes.
Why do people use cornstarch instead of flour?
People choose to use cornstarch over flour for several reasons. Firstly, cornstarch is solely composed of starch, without any additional components like fiber or protein. This makes it an attractive option for individuals seeking a gluten-free alternative, such as those with celiac disease. As cornstarch does not contain gluten, it provides a safe option for baking or cooking without compromising on taste or texture. Furthermore, cornstarch’s pure starch composition allows for a smoother and silkier texture in certain dishes, making it particularly suitable for thickening sauces or gravies, where a high level of clarity is desired.
Is cornstarch safe on skin?
Cornstarch is generally considered safe to use on the skin. Its natural moisture-absorbing properties make it a popular choice for soothing irritated skin and keeping the body refreshed. Its abundance of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties further contribute to its safety and effectiveness. Unlike chemically formulated talcum powders, cornstarch is a lightweight and natural alternative that does not harm the skin. However, as with any skincare product, it is always recommended to perform a patch test first to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
Is corn starch the same as corn flour?
Corn flour and cornstarch are not the same. The main difference lies in their color and texture. Corn flour is a yellow powder made from finely ground, dried corn, while cornstarch is a fine, white powder extracted from the starchy part of a corn kernel. Although both may have different names depending on your location, they serve different purposes in cooking. Corn flour is used similarly to other flours, while cornstarch is primarily used as a thickening agent.