Baking mystery solved: how to use corn starch and corn flour in australia

When it comes to baking and cooking, corn starch and corn flour are two essential ingredients that often get confused. In Australia, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not the same. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of corn starch and corn flour, exploring their similarities, differences, and how to use them effectively. By the end, you’ll be a pro at distinguishing between these two pantry staples and using them to create culinary masterpieces.

What is Corn Starch?

Corn starch, also known as maize starch, is a white, powdery substance extracted from the endosperm of corn kernels. It is a carbohydrate that consists of long chains of glucose molecules. Corn starch is used as a thickening agent in sauces, soups, gravies, and baked goods. It is also used as a dusting powder to prevent dough from sticking.

What is Corn Flour?

Corn flour, also known as cornmeal, is a coarse, yellow powder made from finely ground corn kernels. It is a whole-grain flour that contains the bran, germ, and endosperm of the corn. Corn flour is used to make cornbread, tortillas, polenta, and other corn-based dishes.

Similarities between Corn Starch and Corn Flour

• Both corn starch and corn flour are derived from corn.
• They are both carbohydrates.
• They can both be used as thickening agents.

Differences between Corn Starch and Corn Flour

• Texture: Corn starch is a fine, white powder, while corn flour is a coarse, yellow powder.
• Flavor: Corn starch has a neutral flavor, while corn flour has a slightly sweet, corn-like flavor.
• Uses: Corn starch is primarily used as a thickening agent, while corn flour is used in baking and cooking.

How to Use Corn Starch

• As a thickener: Corn starch is a powerful thickener. To use it, mix 1 tablespoon of corn starch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Bring the liquid you want to thicken to a simmer, then add the slurry. Stir until the liquid has thickened.
• As a dusting powder: Corn starch can be used to prevent dough from sticking. Dust a work surface or dough with corn starch before rolling or kneading.
• In baking: Corn starch can be used as a substitute for flour in some baking recipes. It can help to make cakes and cookies lighter and fluffier.

How to Use Corn Flour

• In baking: Corn flour is a key ingredient in cornbread, tortillas, polenta, and other corn-based dishes. It gives these dishes their characteristic texture and flavor.
• As a thickener: Corn flour can also be used as a thickener, but it is not as powerful as corn starch. To use it, mix 2 tablespoons of corn flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry. Bring the liquid you want to thicken to a simmer, then add the slurry. Stir until the liquid has thickened.
• As a breading: Corn flour can be used as a breading for fried foods. It gives foods a crispy, golden-brown coating.

Which One Should You Use?

Whether you use corn starch or corn flour depends on the recipe you are making. If you need a powerful thickener, use corn starch. If you want to add a corn flavor to a dish, use corn flour.

Corn Starch and Corn Flour in Australia

In Australia, corn starch and corn flour are both widely available in supermarkets and grocery stores. Corn starch is typically sold in small boxes or bags, while corn flour is sold in larger bags. Both products are relatively inexpensive.

Substitutions

If you don’t have corn starch, you can substitute corn flour. However, you will need to use twice as much corn flour as corn starch. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of corn starch, you can use 2 tablespoons of corn flour.

If you don’t have corn flour, you can substitute corn starch. However, the resulting dish may be less flavorful. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 cup of corn flour, you can use 1/2 cup of corn starch.

Wrapping Up

Corn starch and corn flour are two versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of recipes. Understanding their similarities and differences will help you use them effectively to create delicious and satisfying dishes. Whether you’re thickening a sauce, baking a cornbread, or frying some chicken, these pantry staples are sure to come in handy.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between corn starch and corn flour in Australia?

Corn starch is a fine, white powder used as a thickening agent, while corn flour is a coarse, yellow powder used in baking and cooking.

2. Can I substitute corn starch for corn flour?

Yes, but you will need to use twice as much corn flour as corn starch.

3. Can I substitute corn flour for corn starch?

Yes, but the resulting dish may be less flavorful.

4. Where can I buy corn starch and corn flour in Australia?

Corn starch and corn flour are both widely available in supermarkets and grocery stores in Australia.

5. How do I store corn starch and corn flour?

Corn starch and corn flour should be stored in a cool, dry place. They can be stored in their original packaging or in airtight containers.