Corn Flour And Cornstarch Are They The Same
When it comes to cooking, there are a lot of ingredients that can cause confusion. Two ingredients that people often mix up are corn flour and cornstarch. While they may sound similar, they are not the same thing. In this article, we will explore the differences between corn flour and cornstarch to help you better understand them.
What Is Corn Flour?
Corn flour is a type of flour that is made from corn. Traditionally, corn flour was made by grinding whole corn kernels into a fine powder. This type of corn flour is still available today and is often used in recipes for cornbread and other types of baked goods.
However, corn flour can also refer to a specific type of corn flour that has been treated with an alkali. This type of corn flour is called masa harina and is used to make traditional Mexican dishes like tortillas, tamales, and pupusas.
Corn flour is often yellow in color and has a fine texture. It is a popular ingredient in many different types of cuisine and can be found in both sweet and savory dishes.
What Is Cornstarch?
Cornstarch is a fine, powdery substance that is made from the starchy part of corn. It is often used as a thickener in soups, sauces, and gravies because it has the ability to thicken liquids without adding any flavor.
Cornstarch is also often used in baking as a substitute for flour. It is particularly useful in gluten-free baking because it does not contain any gluten.
Cornstarch is usually white in color and has a very fine texture. It is a common ingredient in many different types of cuisine and can be found in both sweet and savory dishes.
What Are The Differences Between Corn Flour And Cornstarch?
The main difference between corn flour and cornstarch is that corn flour is made from the whole kernel of corn, while cornstarch is made from only the starchy part of the corn.
Because corn flour contains the entire kernel, it has a higher nutritional value than cornstarch. It is a good source of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients.
Another difference between the two is their texture. Corn flour is coarser than cornstarch, which makes it more suitable for use in baked goods. On the other hand, cornstarch has a very fine texture, which makes it more suitable for use as a thickener.
Lastly, corn flour has a distinct corn flavor, while cornstarch is flavorless. This means that if you use corn flour in a recipe, it will add a corn flavor to the dish. Cornstarch, on the other hand, will not affect the flavor of the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, corn flour and cornstarch may sound similar, but they are not the same thing. Corn flour is made from the whole kernel of corn and has a higher nutritional value than cornstarch. It also has a coarser texture and a distinct corn flavor. Cornstarch, on the other hand, is made from only the starchy part of corn and is flavorless. It has a very fine texture and is often used as a thickener in soups, sauces, and gravies. Understanding the differences between these two ingredients can help you choose the right one for your recipe.