Corn starch is a fine, white powder that is made from the starch of maize (corn) grain. It is commonly used as a thickening agent in recipes and is often added to sauces, soups, and gravies. One tablespoon (10 g) of 100% pure corn starch contains approximately 35 calories.

Corn starch is low in nutrients, providing little in the way of vitamins or minerals. However, it is a gluten-free, naturally-derived ingredient that can be a useful addition to a variety of dishes.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value of corn starch, its benefits and uses, and how to store and prepare it for use in your kitchen.

What is Corn Starch?

Corn starch is a fine, powdery substance that is extracted from the endosperm of the corn kernel. It is essentially pure carbohydrate, with little protein or fat content. The refining process used to make corn starch involves washing and grinding the corn to remove the germ and the bran. The resulting endosperm is then steeped in hot sulfur dioxide, which breaks down the starch molecules and separates them from the other components of the maize kernel. The resulting corn starch is then dried and ground into a fine powder, which is commonly used as a thickening agent in cooking.

Nutritional Value of Corn Starch

Corn starch is primarily made up of carbohydrates, with little protein or fat content. As a result, it is low in nutrients, providing only small amounts of vitamins and minerals. One tablespoon (10 g) of 100% pure corn starch contains approximately 8 g of carbohydrates, 0 g of protein, 0 g of fat, and 35 calories. It also contains small amounts of potassium, iron, and vitamin B6. Overall, corn starch is not a significant source of nutrients, but it can be a useful ingredient in a variety of recipes as a thickening or binding agent.

Calories in Corn Starch

One tablespoon (10 g) of 100% pure corn starch contains approximately 35 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie ingredient, especially when used in small quantities as a thickener or binder in recipes. However, it is important to note that corn starch is a refined carbohydrate, meaning that it is low in fiber and may be less satiating than whole-food sources of carbohydrates. For those watching their calorie intake, it is important to use corn starch in moderation and to balance it with other nutrient-dense ingredients.

Benefits of Corn Starch

Corn starch has several potential benefits, particularly when used in cooking and baking. One of its main benefits is its ability to thicken and bind ingredients in recipes. This can be particularly useful in soups, sauces, and gravies, where it can help to create a smooth, consistent texture. Corn starch is also a gluten-free, naturally-derived ingredient that can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in recipes. This makes it a useful ingredient for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Uses of Corn Starch

Corn starch is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. As a thickening agent, it can be added to soups, sauces, and gravies to create a smooth, consistent texture. It can also be used to thicken pie fillings, custards, and puddings. Corn starch can also be used as a binding agent in recipes, particularly in gluten-free baking. It can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in recipes like pancakes, cookies, and cakes to help bind the ingredients together and create a desirable texture.

Corn Starch Recipes

Here are a few recipes that use corn starch as a key ingredient: - Tomato Basil Soup: Corn starch is used as a thickener in this classic soup recipe. - Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake: Corn starch is used as a binding agent in this moist, delicious cake recipe.

Alternatives to Corn Starch

For those who do not wish to use corn starch in their cooking or baking, there are several alternatives available. One alternative is arrowroot powder, which is made from the root of the arrowroot plant. It has similar thickening properties to corn starch and is a natural, gluten-free ingredient. Another alternative is tapioca starch, which is made from the cassava root. It can be used as a thickening agent in recipes and is also gluten-free and naturally-derived.

Side Effects of Corn Starch

Corn starch is generally safe for most people to consume in small quantities. However, it may cause digestive issues in some individuals, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders. Due to its high carbohydrate content and low fiber content, corn starch may also contribute to spikes in blood sugar levels when consumed in large quantities. Additionally, some corn starch products may be contaminated with genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For those who wish to avoid GMOs, it is important to look for products that are certified organic or non-GMO.

Storage and Shelf Life

Corn starch should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It has a relatively long shelf life and can be stored for up to two years if kept in ideal conditions. To ensure freshness and prevent clumping, it is important to sift corn starch before using it in recipes.

Buying and Preparation

Corn starch can be found in most grocery stores in the baking or cooking aisle. When purchasing corn starch, it is important to look for 100% pure products, as some brands may contain additional ingredients or additives. To prepare corn starch for use in recipes, it should be added slowly to liquids while whisking continuously to prevent clumping. It is important not to overheat corn starch, as this can cause it to lose its thickening properties.