Cornstarch Or Corn Flour For Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a beloved American dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It's crispy, juicy, and loaded with flavor. However, have you ever wondered why some fried chicken recipes call for cornstarch while others call for corn flour? Is there really a difference between the two?
In this article, we'll take a closer look at cornstarch and corn flour and explore which one is better for making the perfect fried chicken.
What is Cornstarch?
Cornstarch is a fine white powder that is made from corn kernels. It is often used as a thickening agent in soups, sauces, and gravies. Cornstarch is also commonly used in baking to help lighten the texture of cakes and other baked goods.
When it comes to fried chicken, cornstarch is often used as a coating for the chicken. The cornstarch helps to create a crispy outer layer on the chicken and can also help to keep the chicken moist and juicy on the inside.
What is Corn Flour?
Corn flour, on the other hand, is made from finely ground cornmeal. It has a slightly grainy texture and is often used in baking to create tender and moist cakes and bread.
Corn flour can also be used as a coating for fried chicken. However, it tends to produce a thicker, crunchier crust than cornstarch. This can be a good thing if you like your fried chicken with a lot of crunch, but it can also result in a drier, less juicy chicken.
So, Which One is Better for Fried Chicken?
When it comes to making the perfect fried chicken, both cornstarch and corn flour can be used. However, there are a few key differences between the two that may influence which one you choose to use.
If you're looking for a crispy, light coating on your fried chicken, then cornstarch may be the better choice. The fine texture of cornstarch helps it to create a delicate and crispy crust on the chicken.
On the other hand, if you prefer a thicker, crunchier crust on your fried chicken, then corn flour may be the way to go. Corn flour will create a more substantial coating on the chicken that will result in a hearty crunch.
It's also worth noting that some fried chicken recipes call for a combination of cornstarch and corn flour. This can help to balance out the textures and create a coating that is both crispy and crunchy.
Tips for Using Cornstarch or Corn Flour for Fried Chicken
Whether you choose to use cornstarch or corn flour for your fried chicken recipe, there are a few tips that can help you get the best results.
- Make sure your chicken is dry before coating it in either cornstarch or corn flour. Moisture on the chicken can cause the coating to become soggy.
- Season your coating with salt, pepper, and other spices to add flavor to your fried chicken.
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure that the oil is at the correct temperature (around 350-375°F) for frying your chicken. This will help to ensure that the chicken is cooked through and has a crispy coating.
- Don't overcrowd the frying pan. Fry your chicken in batches to ensure that each piece gets crispy and golden brown.
Conclusion
Both cornstarch and corn flour can be used to make delicious fried chicken. Which one you choose to use will depend on your own personal preference for texture and crunch. However, by following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your fried chicken turns out crispy, juicy, and full of flavor.