Cornstarch is a versatile staple in the kitchen. It enhances the texture and taste of sauces, soups, baked goods, fried foods, and desserts. Cornstarch is also a valuable ingredient in homemade personal care products such as deodorant, baby powder, and dry shampoos.

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In this post, we will explore how to use and store cornstarch. It is truly a valuable resource that I always want to keep on hand.

What is Cornstarch?

Cornstarch is a fine white powder derived from the endosperm of corn kernels. It consists primarily of amylose and amylopectin, two types of complex carbohydrates. With excellent moisture-absorbing properties, cornstarch is a reliable thickening agent. Its fine texture and neutral taste allow it to be used in various dishes without altering their flavor profiles.

According to the US Department of Agriculture, cornstarch has a moisture content of about 8.32 percent. This low moisture level makes it a suitable candidate for long-term storage.

What is the Actual Shelf-Life of Cornstarch?

Cornstarch has an incredibly long shelf life when stored properly. The storage conditions can impact its actual shelf life. While cornstarch may lose its thickening power over time, it does not spoil or become unsafe to consume. Officially, cornstarch has an indefinite shelf life.

How to Store Cornstarch for Long-Term Food Storage

Cornstarch has an indefinite shelf life when stored correctly, making it an ideal candidate for long-term food storage. Here are some tips to help maintain its quality over time.

Store in the Correct Container to Protect Cornstarch

Store cornstarch in its original packaging if it safeguards against moisture and light. However, paper or cardboard containers may allow moisture to contaminate the cornstarch over time. Plastic bags are suitable for short-term storage but not ideal for the long term.

Repackaging cornstarch in airtight containers, such as glass jars, plastic containers, Mylar bags, or number ten cans, can enhance its shelf life. For extra protection, consider placing original containers within a sealed plastic bucket.

Keep Cornstarch Cool and Dry

Store cornstarch in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat sources. Moisture exposure can cause clumping and reduce thickening properties. A cool, dry environment helps prevent moisture absorption and the growth of mold or bacteria.

Avoid Temperature Fluctuations

Cornstarch is sensitive to temperature changes. Keep it in a location with a consistent temperature, such as a basement or climate-controlled home. Avoid placing it near stovetops, ovens, or other heat-emitting appliances, as freezing temperatures can reduce its thickening properties when thawed.

Should I Store Cornstarch with an Oxygen Absorber?

An oxygen absorber is not necessary for cornstarch during long-term storage. Cornstarch is a stable product with a long shelf life when stored properly and is not particularly vulnerable to spoilage or degradation when exposed to oxygen.

Protect Cornstarch from Insect Infestation

Cornstarch can attract pests like pantry moths or beetles. Before storage, inspect it for signs of pests, such as tiny holes or webbing. If you notice any signs of infestation, discard the affected product to prevent spreading pests. Always store cornstarch in an airtight container, sealing it tightly.

Protect Cornstarch from Mice

Mice are attracted to food sources high in carbohydrates, including cornstarch. Store it in rodent-resistant containers. Placing original packages in a plastic bucket or tightly sealed tote adds extra protection. Keep the storage area clean, and address any signs of mouse activity immediately.

What is the Nutritional Value of Cornstarch?

Cornstarch primarily consists of carbohydrates and lacks significant amounts of other essential nutrients. It provides little nutrition and is high in calories.

• Carbohydrates: Cornstarch contains approximately 91 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, making it a high-carbohydrate food.
• Calories: It provides about 381 calories per 100 grams.
• Fiber: Cornstarch has negligible fiber, with less than 1 gram per 100 grams.
• Protein and Fat: It contains less than 1 gram of both macronutrients per 100 grams.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Cornstarch offers trace amounts of certain nutrients, such as potassium, phosphorus, and small amounts of B vitamins, but these levels are generally too low to provide substantial nutritional benefits.

Culinary Uses and Tips for Using Cornstarch in Cooking

Cornstarch plays a vital role in many recipes. A small amount can significantly change the final dish. Here are some culinary uses and valuable tips.

Thickening Agent

One primary use of cornstarch is as a thickening agent. It is essential in gravies, sauces, soups, and puddings. When heated, starch granules absorb moisture, swell, and create a viscous consistency that enhances the dish's texture.

How to Use Cornstarch as a Thickening Agent

• Create a Slurry: Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold liquid in a bowl until fully dissolved. The general ratio is 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for every 1 cup of liquid.
• Add to the Recipe: Gradually pour the cornstarch slurry into the hot or warm liquid you want to thicken, stirring constantly. The heat activates the thickening properties.
• Cook: Cook for a few minutes until the desired consistency is achieved. A brief cooking time removes any starchy taste.

Baked Goods

Cornstarch enhances the texture of baked goods, creating moist cakes, cookies, and pastries. I often use cornstarch as a substitute for wheat flour in gluten-free baking, combining it with other gluten-free flours like chickpea or oat flour for added nutrition.

Desserts

Cornstarch is crucial in various desserts, providing silky custards, velvety puddings, and fruit pie fillings. It creates a smooth finish while stabilizing and thickening sweet treats.

For a quick pie filling, mix some cornstarch into the liquid from canned or bottled fruits, boil it, then reduce heat and add the fruit.

How to Use Cornstarch in Baking and Desserts

• Baked Goods: Substitute a portion of flour with cornstarch for a lighter texture. Start with replacing 1/4 cup of flour with 1/4 cup of cornstarch.
• Puddings and Custards: Mix cornstarch with cold milk, then add it to the heated milk mixture, cooking and stirring until thickened.
• Fruit Fillings: Toss fruit with a mixture of cornstarch and sugar before cooking to thicken fruit juices.

Coating Agent

I enjoy using cornstarch as a flour replacement in my coating recipe for gluten-free fried chicken. It creates a crispy exterior while locking in moisture.

How to Use Cornstarch in Coating and Frying

• Preparing the Coating: Combine cornstarch with seasonings for added flavor.
• Coat the Food: Lightly coat the food with the cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess. Moisten the food before coating to achieve a thin layer.
• Frying: Heat oil and fry the coated food until crispy and cooked through.

Homemade DIY Personal Care Products Made with Cornstarch

Cornstarch is handy for making personal care products at home. Store these items in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Always perform a patch test before using homemade products.

Dry Shampoo

Mix 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of baking soda and add essential oil. Apply to your hair roots and brush it in.

Body Powder

Combine 1/2 cup of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of arrowroot powder and a few drops of essential oil, then store in a shaker-top container.

Homemade Deodorant

Mix 1/2 cup of cornstarch and 1/2 cup of baking soda with 3-4 tablespoons of melted coconut oil to form a paste. Add essential oil and store in an airtight container.

Face Powder

Mix cornstarch with cocoa powder to match your skin tone for a natural face powder.

Body Spray

Combine 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and essential oils in a spray bottle. Shake before use.

Baby Powder

Mix cornstarch with ground oats for a gentle baby powder that absorbs moisture.

Foot Powder

Mix cornstarch with tea tree oil and baking soda to create a fresh foot powder.

What Can I Substitute for Cornstarch if I Run Out?

Although I always keep cornstarch on hand, there are several alternatives in case you run out:

Arrowroot Powder: This gluten-free starch can be used in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute.

Potato Starch: Another gluten-free option, suitable for soups and sauces, used in the same quantity as cornstarch.

Tapioca Starch/Flour: A versatile thickener that can also be used at a 1:1 ratio.

Rice Flour: Good for thickening in gluten-free recipes, using the same quantity as cornstarch.

Wheat Flour: Use about twice as much as cornstarch to achieve similar results.

Guar Gum: Start with half the amount of guar gum as cornstarch and adjust as needed.

Xanthan Gum: A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly as instructed on packaging.

Cornstarch is a Great Addition to Your Prepper Pantry!

I store cornstarch because it is inexpensive, has a long shelf life, and is crucial in my homemade dishes and personal care products. I use it frequently.

One caution is that while it contains calories, it does not provide significant nutrition. I use it sparingly, much like salt and sugar. Like these ingredients, cornstarch profoundly impacts the dishes I serve my family.

Since cornstarch is not easy to make at home, stocking up in case of scarcity is wise. It also makes for a great barter item if you have extra on hand.

Thanks for being part of the solution!

Jonathan and Kylene Jones