cornstarch
Also known as: cornflour, maize starch, corn starch
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Also known as: cornflour, maize starch, corn starch
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Common measurement equivalents in grams
Cornstarch is a refined carbohydrate that provides a quick source of energy but lacks significant vitamins, minerals, or fiber. While it is naturally low in fat, sodium, and cholesterol, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie and carbohydrate density.
Cornstarch is very high in carbohydrates, containing approximately 91.3g of carbs and 381 calories per 100g. It contains negligible amounts of protein (0.3g) and fat (0.1g), making it almost pure starch.
Yes, pure cornstarch is naturally gluten-free as it is processed from the endosperm of corn. This makes it an excellent thickening substitute for wheat flour for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
No, cornstarch is not considered keto-friendly because it is extremely high in carbohydrates. Even a small amount used for thickening can significantly impact your daily carb limit and potentially kick you out of ketosis.
To avoid lumps, mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold liquid to create a 'slurry' before adding it to a hot mixture. It thickens quickly once it reaches a simmer, resulting in a clear, glossy finish in sauces and gravies.
Yes, but you generally need to use twice as much flour to achieve the same thickening power as cornstarch. Note that flour-thickened sauces will be opaque and have a matte finish, whereas cornstarch creates a translucent, shiny appearance.
In the United States, cornstarch is the fine white powder extracted from the starch of the kernel, while corn flour is made from the whole ground kernel. However, in the UK and Australia, 'cornflour' is often the name used for what Americans call cornstarch.
cornstarch is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 381 calories per 100g and 0.3 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the other category with complete nutrition information.
View all other →Discover 10 recipes featuring cornstarch with step-by-step instructions.
Browse recipes →Cornstarch should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Because it does not contain fats that can go rancid, it has an indefinite shelf life if kept completely dry and free of contaminants.
It is not recommended to freeze sauces or gravies thickened with cornstarch. The starch molecules tend to break down during the freezing and thawing process, which can cause the sauce to become watery or develop a spongy texture.
Diabetics should use cornstarch with caution. Because it is a highly refined carbohydrate with a high glycemic index, it can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. It is best used in very small quantities as part of a balanced meal.
