Cornstarch

Zea mays (starch from endosperm) Thickener

Cornstarch Thickener

At a Glance

  • Category Thickener

The Forktionary Angle

"The secret to crystal-clear, glossy sauces and gravies, offering superior thickening power with a neutral flavor profile compared to flour."

Definition

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

Activation Method Requires mixing with a cold liquid (slurry) before adding to hot liquids to prevent lumps.
Texture Result Creates a translucent, glossy finish and a smooth, almost gel-like texture when cooked.
Thickening Power Twice the thickening power of flour; 1 tbsp cornstarch = 2 tbsp flour.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cornstarch are:

Neutral

Chef’s Secret

For extra crispy fried chicken or tempura, add a small amount of cornstarch to your dry dredging mix or batter.

Best Substitutes

1:1 arrowroot powder

1:1 tapioca starch

2:1 all-purpose flour

needs more cooking time

Buying Guide

Look for pure cornstarch with no additives. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.

Recipes Using Cornstarch

Course 60 Minutes Or Less Desserts Preparation

Better Than Pumpkin Uses Butternut Squash Pie

This decadent butternut squash pie tastes just like pumpkin pie, but with a subtly sweeter and richer flavor! Perfect for fall gatherings or anyone who loves pumpkin pie but wants a unique twist. Made with homegrown butternut squash, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Even the pickiest eaters won't be able to tell the difference!

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Preparation Pies And Tarts Preparation 30 Minutes Or Less

Best Ever Lemon Pie

This Thanksgiving favorite lemon pie recipe is guaranteed to impress! A creamy, tangy lemon filling, topped with a dreamy meringue, this recipe is a classic for a reason. Prepare to be amazed by its irresistible flavor and perfect texture. Easy to follow instructions make it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.

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Main Ingredient Meat Roast Beef Cuisine

3 Packet Roast

This 3-Packet Roast recipe creates a wonderfully tender and juicy roast with a rich, flavorful gravy. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this slow-cooker masterpiece requires minimal prep and yields maximum deliciousness. Get ready for melt-in-your-mouth meat and a gravy that's simply irresistible!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Time To Make Apples

Apple Stuffed Pork Loin With Raspberry Sauce

Experience the culinary magic of the Buxton Inn in Granville, Ohio! This recipe, straight from their kitchen nestled in Ohio's Welsh mountains, features a juicy apple-stuffed pork loin, perfectly complemented by a tangy raspberry sauce. Drive-worthy deliciousness awaits – tender pork, sweet apples, and a burst of berry flavor in every bite. Even better, this recipe is easily adaptable – use frozen berries if fresh aren't available, and substitute apple juice for brandy if desired. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this show-stopping dish!

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Apples Low Cholesterol 4 Hours Or Less For Large Groups

Apple Pineapple Salad

This vibrant Apple Pineapple Salad from Taste of Home is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors! Juicy pineapple, crisp apples, and plump grapes create a refreshing taste sensation, perfectly complemented by a creamy, homemade dressing. Easy to make and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light summer dessert.

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Citrus Healthy 60 Minutes Or Less Course

Ann Lander's Best Lemon Meringue Pie With Never Fail Meringue

Conquer the art of the perfect lemon meringue pie with this foolproof recipe! Achieve that iconic sky-high, bakery-style meringue with our simple trick: 6 egg whites and double the sugar! This recipe offers incredible flexibility: use a classic pie crust or a delicious graham cracker crust (perfect with whipped cream!), adjust the tartness to your liking, and even make the filling in the microwave! Prepare the filling the night before for optimal thickening, then top with meringue or whipped cream the next day. Get ready to impress with this unbelievably easy and delicious lemon meringue pie!

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Pies And Tarts Pies Course Low Protein

Low Calorie Lemon Chiffon Pie

Indulge in a guilt-free dessert! This light and zesty Low-Calorie Lemon Chiffon Pie is perfect for those watching their weight without sacrificing flavor. Made with real lemon and a touch of sweetness, this recipe is a refreshing and delicious treat that's surprisingly healthy. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, low-calorie dessert masterpiece!

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Main Ingredient One Dish Meal Beef Main Dish

3 Hour Old Fashioned Oven Pot Roast

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: a melt-in-your-mouth pot roast, bursting with flavor and boasting a rich, savory gravy. This 3-hour oven-baked masterpiece features perfectly tender meat that slices beautifully, making it ideal for a family dinner or special occasion. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen!

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Fruit Course Low In Something Cuisine

Apple Sausage Pancakes With Cider Syrup

Cozy up to a delightful autumn morning with these Apple Sausage Pancakes! This hearty and flavorful breakfast recipe combines fluffy pancakes with sweet and tart cider syrup, juicy apples, and savory sausage. Using your favorite pancake mix makes it a cinch to prepare. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special fall treat.

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Spicy Equipment Beef Steaks

Beef Garlic Scapes Stir Fry

Experience the vibrant taste of authentic Chinese cuisine with this Beef Garlic Scapes Stir-Fry! Garlic scapes, also known as garlic greens, add a unique garlicky and slightly sweet flavor. If you can't find garlic scapes, easily substitute with green onions or green beans for a delicious twist. This quick and easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds!

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Vegetarian Easy Technique Vegan

Acadia's Tofu Stir Fry

Transform bland tofu into a flavor explosion! This Acadia-inspired tofu stir-fry is perfect for weeknight dinners. Marinated for maximum flavor, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly tasty. Serve over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own. Even tofu beginners will succeed with this delicious and satisfying meal.

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Course Preparation Dietary Course

American Chicken Broccoli Stir Fry

This 30-minute American Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry recipe delivers a burst of flavor! Tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli are tossed in a savory, slightly sweet, and subtly spicy sauce. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal!

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Easy 30 Minutes Or Less Presentation Low In Something

Anise Milk

Escape the chill with this comforting anise milk recipe! Sweet, subtly spiced, and creamy, it's the perfect hot beverage for cozy nights in. Easy to make in just 20 minutes, this warming drink is guaranteed to become your new winter favorite.

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Apples Main Ingredient Fruit Occasion

Apple Syrup

Spice up your breakfast! This homemade apple syrup is a delightful twist on traditional maple syrup, perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Made with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices, it's a comforting and flavorful treat that's surprisingly easy to make. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Low In Something Preparation Time To Make Low Calorie

Basic Vanilla Custard

This creamy, dreamy vanilla custard recipe is a family heirloom, passed down through generations! Effortlessly smooth and bursting with vanilla flavor, it's the perfect ending to any meal. Enjoy it on its own, drizzle it over your favorite canned fruit (peaches and guavas are particularly delightful), or elevate your bread pudding to new heights. Worried about stray egg whites? No problem! Use four egg yolks instead of two whole eggs for an ultra-smooth texture, or strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve for perfectly flawless results.

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From Scratch American Course Heirloom Historical

American Chop Suey 1958

Step back in time with this authentic 1958 American Chop Suey recipe! Unlike the macaroni versions, this recipe delivers a true chop suey experience, adapted from the iconic Good Housekeeping's Hamburger and Hot Dog book. Tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce create a delicious dish perfect served over fluffy rice. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love!

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Poultry Main Dish Preparation Chicken

Mandarin Chicken

A vibrant twist on sweet and sour chicken! This easy recipe swaps pineapple for juicy mandarin oranges, creating a sweet, tangy, and incredibly flavorful dish ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.

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4 Hours Or Less Easter Tex Mex Pork

Baked Ham Glazed With Pineapple And Chipotle Peppers

Sweet, smoky, and spicy baked ham recipe! This incredible glaze combines juicy pineapple with smoky chipotle peppers for a flavor explosion. Leave the chipotle seeds in for extra heat! Perfect for holiday gatherings or a special weeknight dinner. Impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe.

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