What Does Cornstarch Taste Like?

Not sure what to do with cornstarch?In this article, we’re going to cover cornstarch taste, texture and how to use it in your cooking. 

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What Does Cornstarch Taste Like? 

Though it’s made from dried corn kernels, cornstarch does not taste like corn.Rather, it tastes very much like flour, which is also to say that it does not taste like much at all, really.

When it comes down to it, cornstarch simply tastes starchy, which may be more due to the sensation on the tongue rather than the flavor.

Related Article: How to Freeze Corn on the Cob

Cornstarch Texture 

Cornstarch is a fine powder with a texture that’s nearly identical to powdered sugar, smooth and silky.It’s typically added to liquids as it’s meant to be used as a thickening agent, which changes the texture.

Cornstarch dissolves in liquid and starts to gel as the mixture is heated.The more cornstarch you use, the more jelly-like the liquid will become.

Related Article: What Does Coffee Taste Like?

Why Do I Crave Cornstarch? 

If you’re craving cornstarch, it may be a sign of nutritional deficiencies.You could be low in zinc, iron and other minerals, and your cravings are your body’s form of communication.

Craving cornstarch could also be a sign of pica, which is also frequently related to nutritional deficits.Bottom line, cornstarch should not be consumed raw, so if cravings start happening, you may want to schedule a doctor’s appointment.

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What Is a Healthy Alternative to Cornstarch? 

Not everyone likes cornstarch, so if you you’d rather use a different thickening agent for your sauces, there are plenty of choices that are healthy and vegan.

Flour, including whole wheat flour, can be used in place of cornstarch as it also thickens liquids when cooked, though it may impart a “floury” flavor if used in larger quantities.

Arrowroot starch, made from the arrowroot plant, also works like cornstarch and is a good option for thickening fruit sauces and pies.Tapioca starch is especially good for pies and anything that you want to remain clear and gelatinous rather than slightly opaque and starchy.

Read Also: What Does Corn Taste Like?

How to Use Cornstarch in Your Kitchen 

Because cornstarch is such a wonderful thickener, it’s helpful to have in the kitchen for anything from vegan cream sauces to vegan cheeses. In the videos below, you’ll see the various uses for cornstarch that’ll make vegan cooking easier than ever.

Here’s a fabulous recipe for an herb-crusted vegan cheese.If it sounds complicated, rest assured, it’s really not.All you need to do is blend together cashews, water, cornstarch, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, olive oil and seasonings, apply heat on the stove to let the cornstarch work its magic, then let it set up in the fridge.Have fun with your toppings and try anything from dried fruit to nuts.

With the help of the short video, you’ll be able to make crispy orange tofu in no time flat.Here, the cornstarch will act as a thickener when added to the sauce ingredients, but it will also create a crispy, crunchy coating when pan-fried. Tofu will absorb more flavor from the spices or marinade if you remove excess moisture first using a tofu press. If you don’t have one yet, take a look at our picks for the top 5 best tofu press options.

Further Reading: What Does Cranberry Juice Taste Like?

Wrap Up 

Cornstarch is a dried powder made from corn kernels and used in liquids as a thickening agent.It’s not meant for eating as is, though it’s perfectly safe to cook with.Cornstarch can make sauces creamier, tofu crispier and vegan apple pie silkier.Did you know that you can even make plant-based pudding with cornstarch?If you do, let us know how it goes!

Related Article: What Does Cream of Wheat Taste Like?

Joey Bruno

Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!