🌾 Grains & Starches

Can You Substitute Cornstarch for Potato Starch? Ratios

Learn how to substitute cornstarch for potato starch in any recipe. Complete guide with ratios, differences, and tips for perfect results every time.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can substitute cornstarch for potato starch in most recipes using a 1:1 ratio. Cornstarch is more readily available and works well in sauces, gravies, baking, and frying, though it creates slightly different textures.

Best Substitutes

Cornstarch

1:1

Fine white powder made from corn kernels, excellent thickening agent with neutral flavor and wide availability

Best for:

saucesgraviespie fillingspuddingsfryingbakingstir-fries

Best direct substitute, most readily available

Arrowroot Powder

1:1

Natural starch that creates clear, glossy sauces and works well with acidic ingredients

Best for:

fruit saucesacidic dishesclear saucesgluten-free baking

Better for acidic foods, creates clearer sauces

Tapioca Starch

1:1

Starch extracted from cassava root, creates smooth, chewy texture perfect for gluten-free recipes

Best for:

gluten-free bakingpuddingspie fillingsthickening

Good for gluten-free applications, creates chewy texture

Rice Flour

2:1

Fine flour made from ground rice, good for gluten-free applications but requires more quantity

Best for:

gluten-free bakingthickeningcoatingfrying

Use twice as much rice flour as potato starch

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Cornstarch is the most accessible substitute for potato starch and works in 95% of recipes
  • 💡Use a 1:1 ratio when substituting cornstarch for potato starch
  • 💡Cornstarch creates slightly more opaque sauces compared to potato starch's clear finish
  • 💡Mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding to hot liquids to prevent clumping
  • 💡Cornstarch works well in acidic dishes, unlike some other starches
  • 💡For frying, cornstarch creates an even crispier coating than potato starch
  • 💡In baking, cornstarch creates tender textures similar to potato starch
  • 💡Cornstarch is more heat-stable than arrowroot, making it better for long cooking times

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute cornstarch for potato starch?

Yes, cornstarch is an excellent substitute for potato starch. Use a 1:1 ratio and it will work in most recipes including sauces, gravies, baking, and frying applications.

What's the difference between cornstarch and potato starch?

Both are excellent thickeners, but potato starch creates slightly clearer, more glossy sauces while cornstarch is more readily available and creates slightly more opaque results. Both work well in most applications.

Can I use cornstarch instead of potato starch in baking?

Yes, cornstarch works well in baking and creates tender textures similar to potato starch. Use a 1:1 ratio in cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.

Is cornstarch a good substitute for potato starch in frying?

Yes, cornstarch is actually excellent for frying and creates an even crispier coating than potato starch. It's perfect for fried chicken, tempura, and other fried foods.

Can I use cornstarch instead of potato starch in pie fillings?

Yes, cornstarch works well in pie fillings and creates good thickening. Note that it will create a slightly more opaque filling compared to potato starch's clearer finish.

Why is cornstarch more popular than potato starch?

Cornstarch is more readily available in most grocery stores, is generally cheaper, and works well in most applications. Potato starch is more common in European and Asian cuisines but cornstarch is the standard in North America.

Summary

Learn how to substitute cornstarch for potato starch in any recipe. Complete guide with 1:1 ratios, differences, and tips for perfect sauces, gravies, baking, and frying results.