Thickener, Stabilizer | Gluten Free Vegan Vegetarian

Xanthan Gum

Polysaccharide produced by Xanthomonas campestris Allergen-Free
Xanthan Gum

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A
  • Primary Cuisine N/A (Modern Food Science)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sugar (often corn, soy, or wheat-derived)

The Forktionary Angle

"Modern Culinary Emulsifier"

Definition

A powerful polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation, primarily used as a gluten-free thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in food products.

Sensory Profile

TasteNeutral
TextureFine powder, Highly viscous (hydrated)
AromaNone
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Dry Shelf Life (sealed)

2-5 Years

Typical Concentration (for sauces)

0.1-0.5%

Viscosity at 1% Solution (cP)

1200-1600

Nutrition Facts

Per 1g (approx. 1/4 tsp)
Calories300 kcal
Total Fat0g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0g
Total Carbohydrate70g
Dietary Fiber70g
Total Sugars0g
Calcium0mg
Iron0mg
Potassium0mg

Chef’s Secret

To prevent clumping, always sprinkle xanthan gum very slowly into a liquid while whisking vigorously, or pre-mix it with a small amount of sugar or oil.

Substitutions

Best Match

Guar Gum

1:2 (xanthan to guar for equal thickening)

Good for cold liquids, less effective for baking volume and can impart a slight bean flavor.

Psyllium Husk

1:2 (xanthan to psyllium for equal binding)

Excellent fiber source and binder in gluten-free baking, but can add a distinct texture/color.

Gelatin

Varies, not a direct substitute for thickening

Provides gel structure, but not suitable for vegan diets and yields a different texture.

Cornstarch

Varies greatly (much higher ratio needed)

Thickens when heated, but provides no binding in cold applications and can be cloudy.

Buying Guide

Look for food-grade xanthan gum. A little goes a long way, so buy in small quantities unless you use it frequently.

Flavor Pairings

Gluten-free baked goods dressings sauces gravies smoothies ice cream.

Recipes Using Xanthan Gum

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Alton Brown Chewy Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

These incredible gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are adapted from Alton Brown's "Good Eats" recipe! Perfectly chewy and bursting with chocolate, you won't believe they're made without wheat. A game-changer for gluten-free baking, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers unbelievably delicious results. Say goodbye to dry, crumbly gluten-free cookies forever!

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Amazing Gluten Free Buttermilk Donuts Doughnuts

Indulge in the irresistible taste of perfectly fluffy gluten-free buttermilk donuts! This recipe, inspired by gf-utah, uses a simple yet effective rice flour blend to create donuts that look, taste, and feel just like the real deal. Surprisingly easy to make, these delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time a sweet craving hits. Get ready to wow your family and friends with these amazing gluten-free donuts!

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Vegetarian Desserts Taste Mood Equipment

Angel Food Cake Gluten Free

Indulge in this heavenly gluten-free angel food cake! This recipe delivers a light and airy texture, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth without compromising on taste. Unlike other gluten-free versions that deflate, this recipe uses a technique to ensure maximum rise and a stunningly beautiful cake. Made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, this recipe is perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners. Serve it plain, or create a delightful strawberry trifle as described in the recipe. Get ready for a gluten-free dessert experience that will leave you and your guests speechless!

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Seasonal Preparation Pies And Tarts 4 Hours Or Less

Awesome Gluten Free Apple Pie With Crumble Topping

Craving Grandma's apple pie but need a gluten-free option? This recipe delivers a thick, juicy apple pie with a buttery, crumbly topping and flaky crust. Made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it's so delicious, even your gluten-loving family won't believe it's gluten-free! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate comfort food experience. #glutenfree #applepie #crumblytopping #homemade #easyrecipe #dessert #comfortfood

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Awesome Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

These soft and chewy gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer! Adapted from a beloved recipe in Taste of Home's "Best of Country Cookies," this recipe delivers the ultimate texture without the dryness often found in gluten-free baked goods. Perfect for satisfying your chocolate chip cookie craving, even with dietary restrictions.

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Seasonal Seasonal Grains Comfort Food

Banana Maple Pecan Bread Muffins Gluten Free

Transform overripe bananas into heavenly gluten-free muffins! This recipe, born from a 20lb Kroger banana haul (yes, really!), delivers unbelievably moist and flavorful muffins. Choose between a classic maple pecan topping or a decadent cream cheese swirl – both are divine! This recipe easily doubles (yielding approximately 39 muffins!), making it perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week. Made with Bette Hagman's gluten-free flour blend (2 parts garfava bean flour, 1 part sorghum flour, 3 parts cornstarch, 3 parts tapioca flour), this is your new go-to banana bread recipe – muffin form!

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Best Banana Bread Gluten Free

This gluten-free banana bread recipe is a game-changer! My first attempt at a gluten-free version of my beloved banana bread recipe resulted in the perfect texture, flavor, and density – you won't believe it's gluten-free! Say goodbye to dry, crumbly gluten-free bread and hello to moist, flavorful perfection. Get ready to enjoy the best banana bread you've ever tasted!

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