Corn Starch Or Baking Powder For Crispy Wings
If you are a fried chicken lover, then you know that the key to a good crispy chicken is the batter. There are different ways to prepare the batter, but two of the most popular ingredients used are corn starch and baking powder. These two ingredients work wonders in making the chicken skin crispy and delicious. But which one is better? In this article, we will compare corn starch and baking powder and see which one is the champion.
What is Corn Starch
Corn starch is a fine and powdery substance made from corn kernels. It is primarily used as a thickener in soups, sauces, and gravies. However, it can also be used as a coating for fried foods like chicken wings. When used as a coating, corn starch helps to create a crispy and crunchy texture on the outside of the chicken while keeping the inside moist and tender.
What is Baking Powder
Baking powder is a leavening agent commonly used in baking. It is a mixture of baking soda, cream of tartar, and sometimes cornstarch. When added to a batter, it reacts with the liquid and heat to produce carbon dioxide bubbles which cause the batter to rise. In terms of using baking powder for fried chicken, it serves as a dehydrating agent that removes moisture from the chicken skin and helps to create a crispy texture.
The Differences Between Corn Starch and Baking Powder
There are several differences between corn starch and baking powder when it comes to using them as a coating for fried foods:
- Texture: Corn starch gives a lighter and crispier texture compared to baking powder which can make the chicken too crispy and hard.
- Color: Corn starch gives a golden brown color to the chicken while baking powder makes the chicken look pale.
- Flavor: Corn starch does not have any flavor while baking powder can have a slightly bitter taste if used in large amounts.
- Thickness: Corn starch is thicker than baking powder, so it creates a thicker and more substantial coating.
- Application: Corn starch is easy to apply, but baking powder requires more attention to avoid overcooking.
Which One is Better?
Both corn starch and baking powder can be used to make crispy chicken. However, it depends on your personal preference and the type of chicken that you are cooking. If you prefer a lighter and crispier texture, then corn starch is your best bet. If you want a thicker and more substantial coating, then baking powder is the way to go.
In terms of health, corn starch is a better option because baking powder contains aluminum, which can be harmful in large amounts. However, the amount of aluminum in baking powder is not enough to cause harm.
Ultimately, the choice between corn starch and baking powder depends on your personal preference and the dish that you are preparing. Both ingredients have their unique advantages and disadvantages, but when used correctly, they can both make your fried chicken deliciously crispy.
Conclusion
When it comes to making fried chicken, the batter is just as important as the chicken itself. While corn starch and baking powder are both excellent choices for creating a crispy coating, they have their differences. Corn starch gives a lighter and crispier texture, while baking powder creates a thicker and more substantial coating. However, both ingredients can produce a deliciously crispy and golden brown fried chicken. So why not try them both and see which one you prefer?