6 Genius Methods To Use Cornstarch In The Kitchen Past Thickening Soups

Generally, we’re so habituated to utilizing an ingredient for a selected goal that we do not realise its full potential. We regularly do not even know in regards to the other ways wherein we will use it across the kitchen and home. Later, we come throughout “life hacks” that includes this stuff on social media and we want we knew about them earlier! Effectively, at present, enable us to introduce you to some cooking hacks with cornstarch. Most of us are conversant in cornstarch’s position as a thickening agent for soups, curries and sauces. However we will focus on different methods you should use it within the kitchen. However earlier than that, let’s get one distinction clear:
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Cornstarch Versus Corn Flour – What’s The Distinction?

Cornstarch Makes use of: Cornstarch is whitish whereas corn flour is yellowish. Photograph Credit score: iStock

Many individuals use the phrases cornstarch and corn flour interchangeably. However these are literally two detached kinds of elements. Their traits and functions are fairly distinctive. Corn flour is made by grinding entire corn kernels right into a wonderful powder-like substance. It has a yellowish color and a discernible style. Then again, pure cornstarch is tasteless and whitish in color. It’s made by refining the starchy a part of corn and is generally composed of carbohydrates. In some nations, it is not uncommon follow to name cornflour cornstarch. So earlier than shopping for it from the market or following a recipe that makes use of both ingredient, do a double-check. Cornstarch can’t be immediately substituted for different kinds of flour, as corn flour could also be. Cornstarch’s functions largely contain the feel and consistency of things.

Right here Are 6 Genius Makes use of Of Cornstarch Whereas Cooking:

1. For further crispiness:

Cornstarch Makes use of: Cornstarch may also help make meals crispier. Photograph Credit score: iStock

Whether or not you are frying vegetarian or non-vegetarian meals, cornstarch can come to your rescue. Coating them in it earlier than frying helps you get a gently crisp exterior. You do not even essentially must make a slurry or add breadcrumbs. Corn starch can do the trick by itself! However even in case you’re making a particular batter in your fried deal with, including cornstarch to it could actually assist improve its consistency. If you happen to make waffles at house, it’s also possible to add it to that batter for a crisper deal with.
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2. For fluffy omelettes:

Whereas beating eggs to make omelettes, be certain that so as to add a little bit of cornstarch alongside together with your chosen seasonings. This may also help you keep away from rubbery omelettes and get a wonderfully fluffy deal with. The character of cornstarch is such that it reacts with the protein within the eggs to maintain them comfortable and moist for longer.

3. To keep away from leaky pies:

Corn starch has binding properties that you could make the most of in some ways. Whereas making fillings in your baked treats like pies, cornstarch may also help guarantee they don’t seem to be too runny or soggy. Equally, you possibly can add cornstarch to your custard and puddings to enhance their texture.

4. For velveting

Cornstarch Makes use of: Cornstarch is usually used within the Chinese language cooking approach referred to as velveting. Photograph Credit score: iStock

Need to keep the tenderness of meat in your dishes? Then depend on the Chinese language methodology of velveting. This system usually entails cornstarch together with different elements, that are totally mixed with the meat (usually pre-marination). Doing so helps retain the moisture within the meat and likewise types a succulent coating. The meat can later be cooked in water (together with boiling) or oil (frying/ sauteeing).

5. As an egg substitute:

Cornstarch combined with water can be utilized as an egg substitute whereas baking. This hack can also be helpful for many who wish to make vegan and/or gluten-free baked objects (in its pure type, cornstarch doesn’t include gluten). Search for particular recipes that use this methodology to know the way to steadiness the elements.

6. For drying counter tops:

Cornstarch doesn’t simply have direct cooking functions. There are additionally different methods to make use of it across the kitchen. Sprinkling cornstarch over your countertop may also help you dry it earlier than rolling dough or mixing different elements over it immediately. Since cornstarch doesn’t have flavour or color, it will not intrude with the style or look of the meals you place on it.

If you happen to do not have already got cornstarch in your pantry, you now have a number of causes to maintain it stocked. Strive these hacks for your self and see the distinction they are going to make!

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