9 Best Cornstarch Substitutes For The Fry-loving Foodie

Fried food is a staple in many diets, but for those with diabetes, traditional frying methods using cornstarch may not be ideal. Fear not, as many substitutes for cornstarch can be used in frying! From all-purpose flour to almond flour, each substitute has its own unique flavor and texture, allowing for a variety of delicious fried dishes.

Rice Flour – The Neutral Substitute

If you’re looking for a neutral substitute for cornstarch, look no further than rice flour. This light and airy option is made from ground rice and is a great alternative for those who are gluten-free or have corn allergies. Rice flour has a mild, almost undetectable flavor, which makes it a great choice for dishes where you want the seasoning to take center stage.

To use rice flour as a substitute for cornstarch, use 2 tablespoons of rice flour for every 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. This conversion ratio works well for most recipes, but you may need to adjust based on the thickness of your batter or coating. For example, if you’re making a batter that’s too thin, you can add a little more rice flour to make it thicker. On the other hand, if your batter is too thick, you can add a bit more liquid to thin it out.

So, next time you need a neutral substitute for cornstarch, reach for the rice flour. It may just become your new favorite ingredient for all your fried food needs.

All-Purpose Flour – The Jack-of-All-Trades Substitute

When it comes to substituting cornstarch, all-purpose flour is one of the most versatile options available. This pantry staple is made from wheat and has a moderate protein content, making it an ideal substitute for cornstarch in fried foods. Whether you’re in a pinch or simply looking to change things up, all-purpose flour can step in and deliver great results.

To use all-purpose flour as a cornstarch substitute in fried foods, use two tablespoons of flour for every tablespoon of cornstarch. This conversion ratio works well for most recipes, but you may need to adjust it based on the thickness of your batter or coating. For example, if you’re making a batter that’s too thin, you can add a little more flour to make it thicker. On the other hand, if your batter is too thick, you can add a bit more liquid to thin it out.

One of the best things about using all-purpose flour as a cornstarch substitute is that it’s easy to find in any grocery store and affordable. Additionally, it has a neutral flavor, which means it won’t overpower the taste of your dish. Whether you’re making fried chicken, fish, or vegetables, all-purpose flour is a reliable choice that will give you the crispy and golden results you’re looking for.

Chickpea Flour – The Nutty Choice

Chickpea flour is the way to go if you want to add some extra flavor to your fried dishes. This high-protein flour is made from ground chickpeas and has a nutty, earthy flavor that complements a variety of dishes. Not only does chickpea flour add delicious flavor to your fried foods, but it also makes them healthier with its high protein content.

To use chickpea flour as a substitute for cornstarch, use two tablespoons for every one tablespoon of cornstarch. This conversion ratio works well for most recipes, but you may need to adjust it based on the thickness of your batter or coating. For example, if you’re making a batter that’s too thin, you can add a little more chickpea flour to make it thicker. On the other hand, if your batter is too thick, you can add a bit more liquid to thin it out.

Almond Flour – The Sweet and Nutty Option

Almond flour is made from ground almonds and has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. This flour is perfect for those who want to add an extra layer of flavor to their fried dishes. Almond flour is also a good source of healthy fats and protein, making it a healthier option than traditional frying methods.

To use almond flour as a substitute, mix almond flour and water to create a batter. This batter can then coat your food before frying for a crunchy and sweet texture.

Tapioca Starch – The Gluten-Free Option

Tapioca starch is made from the root of the cassava plant and is a popular substitute for cornstarch in frying applications. This type of starch is gluten-free and has a neutral flavor, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

When using tapioca starch as a substitute, use equal parts tapioca starch and water to create a batter. This batter can then be used to coat your food before frying for a crispy and crunchy texture.

Coconut Flour – The Sweet and Coconutty Option

Coconut flour is made from ground coconut and has a sweet and coconutty flavor. This type of flour is perfect for those who want to add an extra layer of flavor to their fried dishes. Coconut flour is also a good source of healthy fats and fiber, making it a healthier option than traditional frying methods.

To use coconut flour as a substitute, mix equal parts coconut flour and water to create a batter. This batter can then be used to coat your food before frying for a crunchy and sweet and coconutty texture.

In conclusion, there are many substitutes for cornstarch in fried foods, each with its unique flavor and texture. There is an option for everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions or personal preferences, from rice flour to coconut flour. Whether you are looking for a gluten-free option or want to add an extra layer of flavor, a cornstarch substitute is perfect for you. So, experiment with these different options to find the one that works best for you and your dishes.