🌾 Grains & Starches

Potato Starch vs Cornstarch: Complete Substitution Guide

Learn how to substitute potato starch for cornstarch and vice versa. Complete guide covering ratios, cooking tips, and when to use each starch for perfect results in every recipe.

Quick Answer

You can substitute potato starch for cornstarch (1:1 ratio) and cornstarch for potato starch (1:1 ratio). Potato starch creates clearer, more glossy results, while cornstarch is more readily available and has a more neutral flavor profile.

Best Substitutes

Cornstarch (for Potato Starch)

1:1

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

Best for:

saucesgraviespuddingspie fillingsstir-friessoups

Most readily available substitute, similar thickening power

Potato Starch (for Cornstarch)

1:1

Fine white powder made from potatoes, creates clearer, more glossy results than cornstarch

Best for:

saucesgraviespuddingspie fillingsstir-friessoups

Creates clearer, more glossy results, similar thickening power

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Both starches can be used interchangeably in most recipes with a 1:1 ratio
  • 💡Potato starch creates clearer, more glossy results than cornstarch
  • 💡Cornstarch is more readily available and has a more neutral flavor profile
  • 💡Both starches work best when mixed with cold liquid before adding to hot liquids
  • 💡Heat mixtures to boiling point to activate thickening properties
  • 💡Stir constantly while adding starch to prevent lumps
  • 💡For best results, use the starch that's called for in the original recipe
  • 💡Both starches can be used for coating foods before frying

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Learn how to substitute potato starch for cornstarch and vice versa. Complete guide covering ratios, cooking tips, and when to use each starch for perfect results in every recipe.