Sometimes, we’re so habituated to utilizing an ingredient for a selected goal that we do not realise its full potential. We usually do not even know in regards to the alternative ways through which we are able to use it across the kitchen and home. Later, we come throughout “life hacks” that includes this stuff on social media and we want we knew about them earlier! Well, at the moment, enable us to introduce you to a couple cooking hacks with cornstarch. Most of us are aware of cornstarch’s function as a thickening agent for soups, curries and sauces. But we will focus on different methods you should utilize it within the kitchen. But earlier than that, let’s get one distinction clear:
Also Read: Say Hi To Baking Soda – Hero Ingredient In Your Kitchen. 5 Interesting Ways To Use It
Cornstarch Versus Corn Flour – What’s The Difference?
Cornstarch Uses: Cornstarch is whitish whereas corn flour is yellowish. Photo Credit: iStock
Many individuals use the phrases cornstarch and corn flour interchangeably. But these are literally two detached kinds of substances. Their traits and purposes are fairly distinctive. Corn flour is made by grinding entire corn kernels right into a tremendous powder-like substance. It has a yellowish color and a discernible style. On the opposite hand, pure cornstarch is tasteless and whitish in color. It is made by refining the starchy a part of corn and is usually composed of carbohydrates. In some international locations, it’s common observe to name cornflour cornstarch. So earlier than shopping for it from the market or following a recipe that makes use of both ingredient, do a double-check. Cornstarch can’t be immediately substituted for different kinds of flour, as corn flour could also be. Cornstarch’s purposes largely contain the feel and consistency of things.
Here Are 6 Genius Uses Of Cornstarch While Cooking:
1. For additional crispiness:
Cornstarch Uses: Cornstarch might help make meals crispier. Photo Credit: iStock
Whether you are frying vegetarian or non-vegetarian meals, cornstarch can come to your rescue. Coating them in it earlier than frying helps you get a carefully crisp exterior. You do not even essentially should make a slurry or add breadcrumbs. Corn starch can do the trick by itself! But even when you’re making a particular batter to your fried deal with, including cornstarch to it might assist improve its consistency. If you make waffles at house, you too can add it to that batter for a crisper deal with.
Also Read: Cooking Tips: 7 Easy Ways To Give Your Snacks A Crispy Coating
2. For fluffy omelettes:
While beating eggs to make omelettes, be certain so as to add a little bit of cornstarch alongside together with your chosen seasonings. This might help you keep away from rubbery omelettes and get a superbly fluffy deal with. The nature of cornstarch is such that it reacts with the protein within the eggs to maintain them smooth and moist for longer.
3. To keep away from leaky pies:
Corn starch has binding properties you can make the most of in some ways. While making fillings to your baked treats like pies, cornstarch might help guarantee they don’t seem to be too runny or soggy. Similarly, you may add cornstarch to your custard and puddings to enhance their texture.
4. For velveting
Cornstarch Uses: Cornstarch is commonly used within the Chinese cooking approach referred to as velveting. Photo Credit: iStock
Want to take care of the tenderness of meat in your dishes? Then depend on the Chinese technique of velveting. This approach usually entails cornstarch together with different substances, that are completely mixed with the meat (usually pre-marination). Doing so helps retain the moisture within the meat and likewise varieties a succulent coating. The meat can later be cooked in water (together with boiling) or oil (frying/ sauteeing).
5. As an egg substitute:
Cornstarch blended with water can be utilized as an egg substitute whereas baking. This hack can be helpful for many who need to make vegan and/or gluten-free baked gadgets (in its pure kind, cornstarch doesn’t comprise gluten). Look for particular recipes that use this technique to know how you can stability the substances.
6. For drying counter tops:
Cornstarch doesn’t simply have direct cooking purposes. There are additionally different methods to make use of it across the kitchen. Sprinkling cornstarch over your countertop might help you dry it earlier than rolling dough or mixing different substances over it immediately. Since cornstarch doesn’t have flavour or color, it will not intervene with the style or look of the meals you place on it.
If you do not have already got cornstarch in your pantry, you now have a number of causes to maintain it stocked. Try these hacks for your self and see the distinction they are going to make!
Also Read: 6 Unique Ways To Use Potatoes At Home (Apart From Eating Them)
Source: meals.ndtv.com