Why cornstarch

When it was eventually recognized as a useful ingredient in cooking, cornstarch brands were among the many companies of the Victorian era to advertise using collectible trading cards.

The cards, which usually featured a picture on one side and an ad or recipe on the other, were often pasted into scrapbooks dedicated to storing the ads.

Related: Cornstarch or Flour? Cornstarch is most commonly used to thicken liquid-based foods like soups, stews, sauces, or custards. When used correctly and in appropriate amounts, cornstarch is translucent and tasteless. Cornstarch also has plenty of uses outside the kitchen—read more on creative ways to use cornstarch around the house here.

To make a slurry for a soup or sauce, whisk equal parts cornstarch and cold water, wine, stock, or broth. You can then slowly pour the smooth slurry into your simmering sauce, soup, stew, or gravy. Cornstarch, corn flour, and cornmeal are all derived from—you guessed it—corn. But there are a few differences that make them non-interchangeable in recipes:. Mix cornstarch and a few drops of water in a bowl until it forms a paste the thickness of peanut butter.

Apply a small layer to your skin and allow it to sit until it dries completely. Then, rinse it off with warm water. Some people also sprinkle cornstarch on their sheets or the inside of clothing to reduce friction.

Thanks to its moisture-absorbing properties, it acts as a natural deodorant to decrease sweat and odor. Microwave the coconut oil for 15—20 seconds or until it liquifies.

Then, slowly add the cornstarch and baking soda until it forms a thick paste. You can also add a drop of your favorite essential oil to give it a pleasant smell. Keep in mind that some people find baking soda irritates their underarms, so it may not be suitable for everyone. Furthermore, if you experience excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, you may need a stronger commercial antiperspirant.

You can use cornstarch as a natural dry shampoo. Sprinkle a small amount onto the roots of your hair and gently brush it through to the ends. For easy application, use a clean makeup brush to transfer it to your roots. To create a matte nail polish, put a few drops of nail polish on a plate and sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch on top.

Start slowly, adding more as needed. Milk baths have historically been used to soothe skin while creating a luxurious bathing experience. Interestingly, one of the secret ingredients in many milk baths is cornstarch. Though no research supports any benefits from taking milk baths with cornstarch, some people find that it works for them.

Seal and shake well. Calgary, AB. Still have more questions? You'll find more answers in our archived monthly feature articles by the Inquisitive Cooks. Meet the Inquisitive Cooks. Hi Dallas, As you've discovered, starches are sometimes noted for their idiosyncrasies! Cornstarch is one of the most commonly used thickeners, but it has some unique traits.

So thanks for the good question! No, you have to treat it right—specifically, in these two ways. It sounds like an unfortunate weather forecast slush plus flurries? Making a slurry adds another step to the recipe, sure, but it also reduces the risk that the cornstarch will clump up into starchy, grainy pockets when added to the rest of the liquid.