Out of Arrowroot, one case
Can you substitute arrowroot for cornstarch?
2 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cornstarch
Same amount as the arrowroot
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 for —
- sauces
One casethe full arrowroot card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of arrowroot |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cornstarchsauces | Same amount |
| 2 | Arrowroot powdersauces | Same amount |
Cornstarch
neutral taste · opaque, less glossy
Traditional thickening agent made from corn. Creates opaque sauces and works well in most applications.
- Best for
- sauces, gravies, puddings, pie fillings, when you want opaque texture
Cornstarch creates opaque sauces and breaks down in acidic conditions. Use in equal amounts to arrowroot powder.
Arrowroot powder
neutral taste · clear, glossy
Fine white powder made from arrowroot plant. Creates clear, glossy sauces and works well in acidic dishes.
- Best for
- sauces, gravies, puddings, pie fillings, when you want clear texture, acidic dishes
Arrowroot powder creates clear, glossy sauces and works well in acidic conditions. It's gluten-free and paleo-friendly.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting arrowroot powder for cornstarch, the main considerations are clarity and acidity. Arrowroot powder creates clearer sauces and works better in acidic conditions, while cornstarch creates opaque sauces and breaks down in acidic dishes.
Tips for substituting arrowroot
7 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
Notes on arrowroot
- Use arrowroot powder for clear, glossy sauces
- Use cornstarch for opaque sauces and general thickening
- Combine both for balanced thickening properties
- Use arrowroot powder in acidic dishes for best results
Questions
5 questionsCan 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.