What is the Best Substitute for Cornstarch or Potato Starch?

When it comes to thickening sauces, soups, and stews, cornstarch and potato starch are often relied upon due to their effectiveness. However, if you find yourself in a situation where these ingredients are unavailable, fear not! There are excellent substitutes that can help you achieve the desired consistency. In this article, we explore the best substitutes and compare them to their counterparts, including some factors to consider when making a choice.

Arrowroot: A Versatile and Effective Substitute

A gateway to our discussion on substitutes, arrowroot is a common go-to for thickening soups and stews. Unlike cornstarch and potato starch, arrowroot is a root starch derived from the Eleocharis dulcis plant. It is highly effective in thickening and adding shine to dishes, making it a preferred choice by many chefs and home cooks alike.

One advantage of arrowroot is that it is a better substitute for cornstarch and potato starch, not just because it works equally well, but also because it has a slightly lower calorie count and a more delicate taste. However, the main downside is its higher cost, which makes it a bit more expensive than the options you might be considering.

The Differences Between Flour, Cornstarch, Potato Starch, and Arrowroot

Understanding the differences between these thickening agents is crucial for finding the best substitute. Here’s a breakdown:

Flour

Pros: Flax, corn, and potato flour can be used, making it a versatile choice. It can be used in place of cornstarch and potato starch to thicken sauces and soups. Cons: It can make your dish somewhat gritty if not used correctly. The taste and texture may be compromised, and it may not produce the glossy finish that arrowroot or cornstarch does.

Cornstarch

Pros: Cornstarch is highly effective as a thickener. It works well in both cold and hot liquids and provides a clear, glossy finish to dishes. It has a slightly sweet flavor that complements many recipes. Cons: Cornstarch has a tendency to make the sauce or soup slightly thick and may leave a noticeable starchiness when overused. It is also a bit more difficult to dissolve compared to arrowroot or potato starch.

Potato Starch

Pros: It is an excellent thickener, similar to cornstarch but milder in flavor, making it a good choice for delicate flavors. Potato starch has a neutral taste and does not alter the dish’s flavor profile significantly. Cons: Like cornstarch, potato starch can make the dish slightly thick and may leave a sticky texture if overused. It is also more challenging to dissolve than arrowroot but easier to dissolve than cornstarch.

Arrowroot

Pros: Arrowroot is one of the best substitutes for cornstarch and potato starch due to its exceptional thickening power and smooth, glossy texture. It is almost flavorless and easy to dissolve, making it a favored choice. Cons: Arrowroot is more expensive than flour and other alternatives, and it may not be suitable for those with a mild gluten sensitivity, as it is gluten-free but contains a small amount of natural protein.

When to Use Each Thickener

Knowing when to use each thickener can help you make the best choice for your recipe:

Cornstarch: Use it for Asian dishes, stews, and gravies where a clear, glossy finish is desired. It is also excellent for making jellies and jams. Potato Starch: It is ideal for sauces, soups, and gravies where you want to avoid a starchy taste. It is also a good substitute for thickening palm oil in traditional recipes. Arrowroot: Use it for thickening soups, stews, and any dish where you want a smooth, glossy texture. It is also great for making sauces and gravies, especially when you want to avoid a starchy taste. Flour: It is more common in baking and less effective for sauces and gravies. It can be used to thicken sauces but may leave a gritty texture if not properly mixed.

Conclusion

In summary, while cornstarch and potato starch are popular, arrowroot stands out as an excellent substitute for its effectiveness, texture, and taste. Understanding the differences between these thickeners can help you choose the best option for your recipe, ensuring your dish turns out perfect every time. Whether you’re looking to save a dish in a pinch or simply want to experiment with different flavors and textures, arrowroot is a versatile and reliable choice.