🌾 Grains & Starches

Can You Substitute Arrowroot for Cornstarch? Complete Guide

Learn how to substitute arrowroot powder for cornstarch in your recipes. Get proper ratios, adjustments, and tips for successful substitutions.

Quick Answer

Yes, you can substitute arrowroot powder for cornstarch using a 1:1 ratio, but arrowroot creates clearer, glossier sauces and works better in acidic dishes.

Best Substitutes

Cornstarch

1:1

Traditional thickening agent made from corn. Creates opaque sauces and works well in most applications.

Best for:

saucesgraviespuddingspie fillingswhen you want opaque texture

Cornstarch creates opaque sauces and breaks down in acidic conditions. Use in equal amounts to arrowroot powder.

Arrowroot Powder

1:1

Fine white powder made from arrowroot plant. Creates clear, glossy sauces and works well in acidic dishes.

Best for:

saucesgraviespuddingspie fillingswhen you want clear textureacidic dishes

Arrowroot powder creates clear, glossy sauces and works well in acidic conditions. It's gluten-free and paleo-friendly.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Arrowroot powder creates clearer, glossier sauces than cornstarch
  • 💡Arrowroot powder works better in acidic dishes than cornstarch
  • 💡Arrowroot powder thickens at lower temperatures than cornstarch
  • 💡Mix arrowroot powder with cold liquid before adding to hot liquids
  • 💡Arrowroot powder is gluten-free and paleo-friendly
  • 💡Store arrowroot powder in a cool, dry place
  • 💡Arrowroot powder is more expensive than cornstarch but provides better results

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch?

Yes, arrowroot powder can substitute for cornstarch using a 1:1 ratio. Arrowroot creates clearer, glossier sauces and works better in acidic dishes.

What's the difference between arrowroot powder and cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder creates clear, glossy sauces and works well in acidic dishes, while cornstarch creates opaque sauces and breaks down in acidic conditions.

Why use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch?

Arrowroot powder is better for acidic dishes, creates clearer sauces, and is gluten-free. It's also paleo-friendly and works at lower temperatures.

Can I use cornstarch instead of arrowroot powder?

Yes, cornstarch can substitute for arrowroot powder using a 1:1 ratio, but it will create opaque sauces and may not work well in acidic dishes.

Which is better for thickening sauces?

Arrowroot powder is better for clear, glossy sauces and acidic dishes, while cornstarch is better for opaque sauces and general thickening applications.

Summary

Learn how to substitute arrowroot powder for cornstarch in your recipes. Get proper ratios, adjustments, and tips for successful substitutions.