Cornstarch

Cornstarch is a fine white powder derived from the endosperm of corn kernels. In the kitchen, it is used primarily as a thickener for sauces, soups, puddings, and fruit fillings. Unlike flour, it creates a clear, glossy thickening that is particularly well suited to Asian sauces and sweet glazes. It is gluten-free and therefore widely used in gluten-free baking as part of a wheat flour substitute. Thanks to its fineness, it is also added to doughs to achieve a more tender texture in biscuits and cakes. Always mix it with cold water before use to prevent lumps from forming.