Difference Between Corn Meal And Corn Starch
When it comes to cooking with corn, there are two main ingredients that are commonly used: corn meal and corn starch. Both corn meal and corn starch come from corn, but they are different in their texture, flavor, and uses in cooking. In this article, we will explore the difference between corn meal and corn starch, and how they can be used in various recipes.
What is Corn Meal?
Corn meal is a type of flour that is made by grinding dried corn kernels into a fine powder. Corn meal is commonly used in baking and cooking, especially for making breads, muffins, and cornbread. Corn meal has a yellow color and a slightly gritty texture, which is why it is often used to add texture and flavor to recipes. Corn meal is available in three different varieties: fine, medium, and coarse.
The fine variety of corn meal is often used in recipes that require a smooth texture, such as pancakes and waffles. The medium variety of corn meal is often used in recipes that require a slightly coarser texture, such as cornbread and muffins. The coarse variety of corn meal is often used in recipes that require a crunchy texture, such as breading for fried foods.
What is Corn Starch?
Corn starch, on the other hand, is a finely powdered starch that is made from the endosperm of corn kernels. Corn starch is commonly used as a thickening agent in cooking and baking, especially in sauces, gravies, and custards. Corn starch has a bland flavor and a powdery texture, which makes it ideal for thickening liquids without affecting the taste of the recipe.
Corn starch is also used in gluten-free baking as a substitute for wheat flour. When mixed with water, corn starch forms a thick paste that can be used to bind ingredients together in recipes such as cakes, cookies, and breads. Corn starch is available in most grocery stores and is often labeled as corn flour in some parts of the world.
The Differences Between Corn Meal and Corn Starch
While corn meal and corn starch are both made from corn, they are different in several ways:
- Corn meal is a type of flour, while corn starch is a type of starch.
- Corn meal has a gritty texture, while corn starch has a powdery texture.
- Corn meal is yellow in color, while corn starch is white in color.
- Corn meal is often used to add texture and flavor to recipes, while corn starch is used as a thickening agent in recipes.
- Corn meal is available in three different varieties: fine, medium, and coarse, while corn starch is only available in one variety.
How to Use Corn Meal and Corn Starch in Recipes
Corn meal and corn starch are both versatile ingredients that can be used in many different recipes. Here are a few examples:
Corn Meal Recipes
- Cornbread
- Corn muffins
- Cornmeal pancakes
- Cornmeal-crusted fried chicken
- Cornmeal-crusted fish
- Cornmeal cookies
Corn Starch Recipes
- Sauces and gravies
- Custards
- Puddings
- Pie fillings
- Stir-fry dishes
- Baked goods (as a thickener)
Conclusion
Corn meal and corn starch may come from the same source, but they are very different in their texture, flavor, and uses in cooking. Corn meal is a type of flour that is used to add texture and flavor to recipes, while corn starch is a type of starch that is used to thicken sauces, gravies, and custards. Both corn meal and corn starch can be used in a variety of recipes, so it's always a good idea to keep both on hand in your kitchen.