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Best Substitutes for Cornstarch (thickener) — What to Use Instead

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Arrowroot Powder: 1:1 — Clear finish. Best for sauces and pie fillings.

Tapioca Starch: 2 tbsp per 1 tbsp cornstarch — Glossy finish. Good for pies and fruit fillings.

Overview

Top substitute for cornstarch (thickener): Arrowroot Powder (1:1). Clear finish. Best for sauces and pie fillings. Plus 3 more alternatives.

Key Details

  • Arrowroot Powder: 1:1 — Clear finish. Best for sauces and pie fillings.
  • Tapioca Starch: 2 tbsp per 1 tbsp cornstarch — Glossy finish. Good for pies and fruit fillings.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp per 1 tbsp cornstarch — Creates cloudy sauce. Cook longer to remove raw taste.
  • Potato Starch: 1:1 — Good for soups and gravies. Add at end of cooking.

Why This Matters

  • Cornstarch (thickener) is a common ingredient that may need substituting
  • Dietary restrictions (vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free) may require alternatives
  • Sometimes you simply run out of an ingredient mid-recipe
  • Allergies or intolerances may necessitate a swap

How To

  1. 1Best overall substitute: Arrowroot Powder at 1:1
  2. 2Consider the role of the ingredient (flavor, texture, binding, leavening)
  3. 3Test substitutes in small batches first
  4. 4Adjust other ingredients as noted for best results
  5. 5Some substitutes work better in certain recipes than others

Tags

substitutesflour-subcornstarch-thickeneringredient-swapcooking-tips

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best substitute for cornstarch (thickener) is Arrowroot Powder at 1:1. Clear finish. Best for sauces and pie fillings.