Cornstarch, also called corn flour, is a common ingredient worldwide. A fine, white powder derived from the endosperm of corn kernels, cornstarch is used in cuisine, beauty, art, science, industry and household cleaning solutions.
What is Cornstarch?
Cornstarch is a gluten-free carbohydrate extracted from the starchy part of the corn kernel, the endosperm. It's high in amylose and amylopectin, which are types of starch.
With its fine texture and neutral taste, cornstarch is a popular thickening agent for sauces, soups, and gravies. It's used in baking and as an anti-caking agent in powdered foods. Being gluten-free, it is an ideal choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Amylose and amylopectin are the two polysaccharides giving cornstarch its water absorbent properties. They swell when heated, thickening the liquid with which cornstarch is mixed. One tablespoon of cornstarch thickens up to one cup of liquid.
Use of corn dates back to ancient civilizations. The extraction of cornstarch in its more refined form begins in the mid-19th century. American chemist Thomas Kingsford is credited with its introduction after he patented a process for extracting starch from corn in 1840.
Before 1851, corn starch is primarily used for stiffening clothes and in various industrial applications. The innovation of extracting pure culinary starch from maize is patented by John Polson of Brown & Polson in Paisley, Scotland in 1854.
Marketed as "Patented Corn Flour," this product is introduced by Brown & Polson, originally muslin producers providing laundry starch for the Paisley shawl sector. Eventually they become the leading starch manufacturers in the United Kingdom.
Making Cornstarch
The process of making cornstarch begins with harvesting corn, typically dent corn, which has a higher starch content. To extract the starch, the corn kernels undergo several steps:
Soaking: Corn is soaked in warm water to soften the outer hull and prepare it for grinding.
Grinding: The softened corn kernels are ground, releasing the starch within the endosperm.
Separation: The ground mixture is then mixed with water, allowing the starch granules to separate from the fiber and germ. This mixture is usually centrifuged to facilitate the separation.
Washing: The extracted starch is rinsed to remove impurities.
Drying: Finally, the clean starch is dried and milled into the fine powder known as cornstarch.
Cornstarch Properties
Thickening agent: Cornstarch can thicken liquids when heated, as it absorbs water and swells.
Nutritional profile: It is predominantly composed of carbohydrates and is low in protein, fat, and fiber.
Glossy finish: When used in sauces or desserts, it lends a shiny appearance.
Storage stability: Cornstarch can absorb moisture; therefore, it should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping or spoilage.
Texture Enhancer: It improves the texture of various foods. Use it in cake batters for a lighter crumb or in sauces for a silkier texture.
Gluten-Free: It is a safe ingredient for gluten-free recipes, essential for those who need to avoid gluten.
Absorbent: Cornstarch absorbs moisture effectively. This property makes it useful for preventing clumping in powdered sugar and enhancing crispiness in fried foods.
Uses of Cornstarch
Cornstarch has many uses.
Cooking and Baking: Many recipes call for cornstarch, whether for thickening sauces, making puddings, or improving the texture of cakes.
Pharmaceuticals: Cornstarch is a common excipient, used to bind tablets or as a coating for capsules.
Cosmetics: It is a base in many skin care products, including powders and lotions. It replaces talc in talcum powders and can be applied to the skin for moisture protection and a smooth silky feel.
Biodegradable Plastics: With recognition of environmental issues, cornstarch is being increasingly used in producing biodegradable materials.
Cleaning: Cornstarch is a natural cleaning agent. It can effectively polish furniture, clean windows, and even refresh carpets when mixed with an essential oil. It's especially useful in polishing glass.
Cornstarch will degrade if it gets damp and microscope molds gleefully alight. They're detectable by their awful stench, the byproduct of their organic breakdown. Store cornstarch in a dry place. If used in cosmetics such as blush, be sure they don't get wet.
Facts About Cornstarch
Non-GMO Options: Many brands offer non-GMO cornstarch, which is derived from corn not genetically modified.
Smoothies and Ice Cream: Cornstarch can be used in smoothies for thickening, and it also contributes to the creamy texture of homemade ice cream.
Home Remedies: Cornstarch is known to absorb moisture, making it a popular ingredient in homemade deodorants and foot powders.
Natural Beauty: Finely sifted, it is a silky smooth powder to reduce blotchiness and even out the skin texture for a glowing complexion and soft skin.
Laundry Additive: It can be used to remove stains from clothing by absorbing oils and grease. As a starch it stiffens textiles.
Caloric Content: Cornstarch has approximately 30 calories per tablespoon, a small amount compared to the overall volume used in recipes.
Non-Toxic: It is a non-toxic ingredient, making it safe for various applications, including children's crafts and even as a safe emergency food thickener.
Fireworks Ingredient: Cornstarch can act as a binder for gunpowder, making it a component in certain fireworks.
Biodegradable: As a natural product, cornstarch is biodegradable, presenting an eco-friendly option compared to synthetic materials.
Starch vs. Flour: It's essential to note that cornstarch differs from cornmeal or corn flour. Cornstarch includes only the starch component, while cornmeal and corn flour are made from ground whole corn kernels.
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