Food thickeners are additives used in cooking to add thickness or texture to soups, sauces, gravies, and other dishes. Thickeners come in various forms and are used for different purposes. Now, we discuss the different types of food thickeners and how to use them in your cooking.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch is a common thickening agent used in cooking. It is a fine white powder that is made from corn kernels. Cornstarch is excellent at thickening sauces, gravies, and soups, and it can also be used as a coating for fried foods. To use cornstarch, mix it with cold water before adding it to the dish you want to thicken. It is essential to mix the cornstarch with cold water to avoid clumping.

Flour

Flour is another common thickening agent used in cooking. It is made from wheat and is usually used to thicken sauces, gravies, and stews. Flour can also be used as a coating for fried foods. To use flour as a thickening agent, mix it with a cold liquid such as water or broth before adding it to your dish. Be sure to stir the mixture constantly to avoid clumping.

Arrowroot

Arrowroot is a gluten-free thickener that is made from the root of the arrowroot plant. It is an excellent thickening agent for sauces, gravies, and desserts. Arrowroot thickens at a lower temperature than cornstarch and flour, and it also provides a clear, glossy finish. To use arrowroot, mix it with a cold liquid before adding it to your dish.

Gelatin

Gelatin is a protein-based thickener that is derived from animal collagen. It is often used in desserts such as jellies, puddings, and fruit salads. Gelatin needs to be dissolved in hot water before it is added to the dish you want to thicken. Once it is dissolved, it will thicken as it cools.

Agar Agar

Agar Agar is a vegetarian and vegan alternative to gelatin. It is a seaweed-based thickener that is commonly used in Asian cuisine. Agar Agar can be used to thicken desserts, sauces, and even soups. To use Agar Agar, it needs to be dissolved in hot liquid before adding it to your dish.

Xanthan Gum

Xanthan gum is a synthetic thickener that is commonly used in gluten-free cooking. It is made from fermented sugar and is often used in sauces, salad dressings, and baked goods. Xanthan gum needs to be mixed with a cold liquid before adding it to your dish.

In conclusion, food thickeners are essential additives in cooking that help to add texture and thickness to your dishes. The different types of food thickeners available offer various benefits, and choosing the right one depends on the dish you are preparing. When using food thickeners, it is essential to follow the instructions carefully to avoid clumping and ensure that the texture is just right.

Kemfood is a leading food additives manufacturer that provides high-quality food thickeners and other food additives. They offer a wide range of food thickeners, including cornstarch, flour, arrowroot, and xanthan gum. Kemfood's food thickeners are carefully formulated to ensure that they provide the desired texture and thickness to your dishes. They are also easy to use and are available in different quantities to meet your needs. Whether you are a home cook or a professional chef, Kemfood has the right food thickener for you.