Cornstarch is found in almost every kitchen. It is readily used as a thickening agent, and due to its diversity, most people prefer to buy cornstarch. Cornstarch is a powdered form of the starchy part of corn kernels. Cornstarch is in a refined form by removing proteins and fibres of corn kernels and extracting it from its starchy centre known as endosperm. Cornstarch is a great source of carbohydrates and helps increase your calories intake. We use cornstarch a lot in our kitchen, but the issue of formation of cornstarch lump is a big one. Let’s see how to get rid of cornstarch lumps.
Cornstarch in our daily lives:
Cornstarch is used in a number of different meals. As cornstarch is used as a thickening agent, it helps bind different ingredients in a meal. Cornstarch can be used in baking in place of eggs. It is used to make fluffy omelettes and to cook well-cooked crispy meat. Cornstarch mixed with baking powder and flour is used to make cake flour. Corn starch is also used in custards because of its ability to prevent it from breaking. Naturally, it has a property of binding ingredients in a meal. There are many medical and industrial applications of cornstarch. Corn starch is used in making of adhesives and textile.
Cornstarch lumps:
If cornstarch is not added into a liquid properly, it will clamp up. Cornstarch is in powdered form and will clamp up if put into a hot liquid directly. First, make a slurry of cornstarch in cold water and then use it for cooking or adding to hot gravy. Ensure that you cook it in medium-high heat; otherwise, it might make lumps in cornstarch. Another thing you must note is that do not let your cornstarch sit over time. It will separate itself from the water.
How To Get Rid Of Cornstarch Lumps?
Firstly, use the same amount of cornstarch and cold water. If you are using two tablespoons of cornstarch, use two tablespoons of water. Gently pour the cornstarch into the water and stir it. Whisk as much as you can. You can add the mixture in a jar and give it a shake to avoid lumps in cold water. Your slurry should be thin with no lumps. Ensure that cornstarch and water are well combined. When the water and cornstarch are well combined, you can use it further in cooking. The slurry is good enough to thicken your gravy without creating lamps.
Cornstarch is considered as one of the most versatile and most used ingredients in our household cooking. The starch powdered form is mainly used for thickening and binding of ingredients. The problem we face is of lumps. You cannot directly add cornstarch for cooking. You need to make a paste of it with cold water. Then, use it with hot gravy. It not only adds flavour to your dish but also it is a great addition which adds texture to your meal. But, if not handled properly, it can ruin your whole meal.