Cornflour

Zea mays (starch) Thickener/Starch

Cornflour Thickener/Starch

At a Glance

  • Category Thickener/Starch

The Forktionary Angle

"The Smooth Operator"

Definition

A fine white powder derived from corn kernels, primarily used as a thickening agent for sauces, soups, and desserts.

Gluten-Free Status Yes
Required Cooking Temp ~95°C (203°F) for full activation
Thickening Power ~2x flour

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cornflour are:

Neutral starchy (when raw) none (when cooked correctly)

Chef’s Secret

Always mix cornflour with an equal amount of cold liquid (a "slurry") before adding to hot mixtures to prevent lumps and ensure smooth thickening.

Best Substitutes

Arrowroot Powder

for clear sauces, heat sensitive
Ratio 1:1

Tapioca Starch

for shiny sauces
Ratio 1:1

Wheat Flour

ratio, requires longer cooking
Ratio 1:2

Buying Guide

Look for a fine, bright white powder. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Recipes Using Cornflour

Equipment Preparation Cuisine Stir Fry

Beef With Black Bean Sauce

Craving that authentic, thick, and flavorful black bean sauce from your favorite Chinese takeout? This recipe delivers! Unlike other thin black bean sauce recipes, this one focuses on creating a rich, abundant sauce that perfectly coats tender beef. Our unconventional method makes it incredibly easy and fast, ensuring your beef stays juicy while the sauce thickens to perfection. Customize it with your favorite stir-fry vegetables – we've included suggestions! Serve over fluffy rice for a truly satisfying meal. Adjust the black bean paste for a milder flavor if desired.

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Dietary Preparation Course Presentation

Arepas De Queso Fritas

Crave authentic Venezuelan flavors? These Arepas De Queso Fritas are a must-try! A beloved Venezuelan recipe, perfected in Spain and ready for your kitchen. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and soft on the inside, these fried cheese arepas are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and bursting with delicious taste, this recipe will transport you straight to Venezuela with every bite.

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For 1 Or 2 Main Ingredient Time To Make Pork

Asian Style Stuffed Pork Loin

This recipe transforms a simple pork loin into an unforgettable culinary adventure! Inspired by Asian flavors, this recipe features a succulent pork loin, expertly stuffed and infused with a vibrant blend of aromatic ingredients. The tender, juicy pork is perfectly complemented by a rich, savory sauce, creating a harmonious explosion of taste. Serve this masterpiece over stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or fluffy steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unique and delicious creation!

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Australian South West Pacific Australian Pork Ribs

Bbq Pork Spareribs

Experience a flavor explosion with these Chinese-inspired BBQ pork spareribs! This recipe adapts a traditional favorite for the grill, delivering tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor meal, these ribs are unbelievably delicious served over fluffy rice. Achieve restaurant-quality results with our easy-to-follow instructions – even beginners can master this recipe!

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Course Easy Inexpensive Japanese

Agedashi Dofu

Experience the delightful crunch of perfectly deep-fried tofu in a warm, savory dashi broth infused with soy sauce and the subtle zest of ginger. This authentic Japanese Agedashi Tofu recipe is easier to make than you think! Impress your friends and family with this irresistible dish, a perfect appetizer or light meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Chicken Low Carb Main Dish Time To Make

Apricot Brandy Chicken

This incredibly easy 30-minute recipe delivers a burst of apricot brandy flavor that will tantalize your taste buds! The rich, luscious sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, leaving everyone wanting more. A family favorite, guaranteed to impress!

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Main Dish Kid Friendly Time To Make Main Dish

Apricot Glazed Sausages

Impress your taste buds with this sweet and tangy Apricot Glazed Sausages recipe! This quick and easy dish, inspired by the Australian Meat & Livestock Corporation, is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The vibrant apricot glaze, made with leftover apricot nectar, adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the savory sausages. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Easy Time To Make Low In Something Easy

Ally Style Pasta Carbonara

A quick and easy pasta recipe, perfect for busy weeknights! This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is a kid-favorite, inspired by my niece Ally. While not traditional carbonara, it's a deliciously close and satisfying alternative that's ready in under 20 minutes.

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Desserts Eggs Dairy Desserts Puddings And Mousses

Balouza Muhallabia Fragrant Milk Pudding

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy Balouza Muhallabia, a fragrant Middle Eastern milk pudding inspired by Claudia Roden. This elegant dessert, similar to a blancmange, boasts delicate orange blossom water notes and crunchy pistachios. Easy to make (only 15 minutes active prep!), it's a delightful treat the whole family will love – even picky eaters! Perfect for adding a touch of exotic flair to your next meal or special occasion. Get ready to impress with this stunning and delicious pudding!

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Main Ingredient Vegetables English Main Dish

Beef Mushroom And Red Wine Pie

Warm up your autumn or winter evenings with this hearty Beef, Mushroom, and Red Wine Pie! A crowd-pleasing favorite, this comforting dish features tender beef slow-cooked in rich red wine with earthy mushrooms. Perfectly complemented by creamy horseradish mash (recipe not included) and seasonal vegetables, it's the ultimate fall feast. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort!

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60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Chicken Meat

Apricot And Sweet Chilli Chicken Hot Pot

Warm up on a chilly evening with this quick and easy Apricot & Sweet Chilli Chicken Hot Pot! This vibrant recipe, inspired by Campbell's, is a flavor explosion. Use your favorite veggies for a customizable and delicious meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying experience. This recipe is also easily adaptable for slow cookers!

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60 Minutes Or Less Course Chicken Breasts Chicken

Avocado Sun Dried Tomato And Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this stunning recipe! Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with creamy avocado, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and melty mozzarella, then wrapped in savory prosciutto for a flavor explosion. A creamy, homemade sauce completes this elegant yet easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a satisfying treat for yourself!

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Main Dish Stove Top Cuisine Meat

Beef And Tofu In Oyster Sauce

Experience a delightful fusion of textures and tastes with this Beef and Tofu in Oyster Sauce recipe! Tender beef, silken tofu soaking up rich savory juices, and crisp-tender asparagus create a symphony of flavors. This isn't your grandma's tofu; it's a protein-packed powerhouse that's both vegetarian-friendly and incredibly satisfying for meat-lovers alike. Get ready for a quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious weeknight meal!

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Preparation Preparation Time To Make 4 Hours Or Less

Bbq Muttonbird Shearwater Titi With Cherry Sauce

Embark on a culinary adventure with this bold and unique recipe featuring Muttonbird (Shearwater/Titi), a native bird of Australia and New Zealand with a rich, distinctive flavor. This recipe isn't for the faint of heart; its strong taste is an acquired one, loved by some and hated by others! If you're seeking a truly adventurous grilling experience, look no further. For a similar taste experience using readily available ingredients, consider substituting American Woodcock (dark meat, strong flavor). Prepare for a flavorful journey!

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Egg Free Preparation Desserts Dietary

A Very Different Pumpkin Cake

This decadent pumpkin cake is a delightful fusion of cake and baked custard, boasting a creamy, dreamy texture. Perfect as a stand-alone dessert or a unique pie filling! Get ready for a taste sensation that's both comforting and surprisingly elegant.

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Served Hot 15 Minutes Or Less Course Australian

Aussie Beer Batter Fish

Dive into the crispy, golden goodness of authentic Aussie Beer Batter Fish! This recipe delivers perfectly flaky fish fillets encased in a light and airy beer batter. Made with simple ingredients and quick to prepare, it's the perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing addition to your next BBQ. Get ready for a taste of Aussie sunshine!

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Asian Preparation Halibut Indian

Bangalore Fish Curry

Inspired by an unforgettable trip to Bangalore, this fish curry recipe captures the vibrant flavors of South India. While some authentic ingredients were hard to find, this masterful adaptation uses readily available substitutes to deliver a remarkably delicious and aromatic dish. Perfect with firm, white fish like halibut or cod, this curry is sure to become a new family favorite! Get ready for a taste of Bangalore in your kitchen!

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Chicken Main Dish Chicken 30 Minutes Or Less

Annette Syms Low Fat Mango Chicken

Craving a vibrant, healthy, and delicious dinner? This quick and easy low-fat Mango Chicken recipe from Annette Syms is ready in under 20 minutes! Tender chicken breasts are infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of mango, creating a dish that's both satisfying and light. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste.

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