Corn Starch vs. Potato Starch: Which One's Better?

If you enjoy preparing meals and desserts, chances are high that you have utilised both corn starch and potato starch in the past. However, have you ever contemplated the dissimilarities between the two? 

This article will explore the characteristics of organic corn starch and organic potato starch, as well as their culinary applications. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, read on to discover more about these organic and natural ingredients.

Organic Corn Starch

Organic corn starch is a refined white powder obtained from the starchy endosperm of corn kernels, often utilised to thicken various food items including soups, sauces, custards, and pie fillings. It is a preferred ingredient for cooking and baking because it thickens at lower temperatures compared to flour, and results in a silky texture without imparting any taste or hue to the dish. Additionally, it is employed in numerous packaged foods to enhance consistency and prolong their shelf life, such as snacks, baked goods, and processed meats. 

Some essential qualities and advantages of corn starch are:

• Organic corn starch is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent substitute for wheat flour for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
• Corn starch is insoluble in cold water and has a neutral taste and odour.
• Organic corn starch is high in carbohydrates, making it an excellent source of energy.
• Corn starch has a relatively low molecular weight and a crystalline structure, which makes it easy to dissolve in hot liquids and form gels.

Organic Potato Starch

Organic potato starch is a type of starch that is derived from crushed potatoes. It possesses a neutral taste and is highly effective at thickening various dishes, making it a desirable ingredient for a variety of recipes. Its applications range from thickening sauces, soups, and stews, to serving as a substitute for flour or cornflour in baking. Due to its high viscosity, it is capable of thickening at lower concentrations, making it a more efficient thickener compared to other starches. Potato starch is also a useful ingredient in baking, as it can aid in binding ingredients and providing structure to baked goods that may otherwise crumble. It is also employed in the production of noodles and other pasta products, as well as various processed foods.

Here are some key features and benefits of potato starch:

• Potato starch is a good source of resistant starch, which is a type of dietary fibre that has been linked to various health benefits, such as improved gut health, better blood sugar control, and reduced risk of colon cancer.
• One of the key benefits of potato starch is its ability to thicken at relatively low temperatures but also holds up better in higher temperatures
• Potato starch is also gluten-free, making it an ideal ingredient for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Comparison of Organic Corn Starch and Organic Potato Starch

Having discussed the individual qualities and advantages of corn starch and  potato starch, let's now contrast the two:

• Thickening Capability: Both organic potato starch and organic corn starch possess commendable thickening power and are capable of thickening a variety of foods effectively.
• Texture: Potato starch boasts a smoother and more transparent texture in comparison to corn starch, which has a more opaque and gel-like texture.
• Temperature: Organic potato starch exhibits superior performance at high temperatures, while organic corn starch is more effective at low to medium temperatures. If you intend to cook your dish at high temperatures, organic potato starch may be the more appropriate choice.
• Nutritional Value: Organic potato starch is generally deemed to be more nutritious than organic corn starch because of its high fibre content. If you're seeking to augment your dietary fibre intake, organic potato starch might be the preferable alternative.

Honest to Goodness Organic Corn Starch and Organic Potato Starch

Honest to Goodness offers high-quality  organic corn starch and organic potato starch, which are both excellent natural thickeners suitable for various cooking and baking purposes. These organic starches are a great alternative to conventional starches for those who seek healthier and more natural options. They are free from harmful additives and chemicals, non-GMO, gluten-free, and have obtained organic certification, indicating that they were grown and processed without synthetic fertilisers or pesticides.

If you need a natural thickener for your sauces, gravies, soups, stews, or baked goods, our organic corn starch and organic potato starch are perfect choices. Give them a try and experience the difference for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ guide aims to provide answers to common questions about corn starch and potato starch.

Can potato starch and corn starch be used interchangeably in recipes?

Although potato starch and corn starch are both great natural thickeners, they can't always be used interchangeably in recipes because they have distinct characteristics that affect taste and consistency. For instance, corn starch may create a clear, silky texture, while potato starch might result in a thicker, more opaque texture. To achieve the best outcome for your recipe, it's recommended to follow the starch type mentioned in the recipe or conduct trials with smaller portions to discover which one is best suited for your recipe.

How should potato starch and corn starch be stored?

Both potato starch and corn starch should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. It is best to keep them in an airtight container to avoid contamination and moisture. Proper storage can keep the quality of these starches for a long time, often up to a year or more.

Potato starch vs potato flour: what's the difference?

Potato starch and potato flour are not interchangeable as they are distinct products with unique properties. The fine, white powder of potato starch is obtained solely from potatoes, whereas potato flour includes the entire potato, including the skin. Potato starch is highly effective as a natural thickener, while potato flour can be used as an alternative to wheat flour in baking. It's essential to understand the difference between these two products before incorporating them into your recipe.

What's the difference between corn starch and corn flour?

Corn starch and corn flour are two corn-based products with different characteristics and uses. Corn starch is a fine white powder used mainly as a thickener in sauces and gravies, while corn flour is a coarsely ground powder used in Mexican and South American dishes, such as tortillas and tamales. Corn flour can also be used in baking, particularly for gluten-free recipes. The main difference between the two is their texture, uses, and the part of the corn kernel used to produce them.

Are potato starch and corn starch gluten-free?

Potato starch and corn starch are naturally gluten-free, making them a great replacement for wheat flour for individuals who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Nonetheless, it's advisable to check the product label to confirm that it's gluten-free and hasn't come into contact with gluten during production.

Are there any nutritional differences between organic corn starch and organic potato starch?

Although both potato starch and corn starch have low fat and calorie content, their nutritional characteristics differ slightly. Organic corn starch has less protein, but more carbohydrates compared to organic potato starch. Organic potato starch, on the other hand, has a wider range of vitamins and minerals as well as more fibre. Nonetheless, since these starches are typically used in small quantities as thickening agents, the differences in nutrition are usually insignificant.

Can organic corn starch and organic potato starch be used in cold recipes, like salads or dressings?

For recipes that need to be heated, it is ideal to use organic corn starch and organic potato starch as they thicken effectively upon cooking. However, for cold recipes, natural thickening options like  arrowroot powder or Agar Agar can be experimented with.

How do organic corn starch and organic potato starch compare to other natural thickeners, like arrowroot powder and tapioca starch?

While arrowroot powder and tapioca starch are both good substitutes for corn starch and potato starch, there are a few key reasons why you might prefer the latter. For starters, organic corn starch and organic potato starch are more widely available and less expensive. Furthermore, they have a more neutral flavour than some other natural thickeners, making them a good choice for recipes where the thickener does not want to affect the taste. Finally, organic corn starch and organic potato starch are both versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of recipes, from gravies and sauces to baked goods and desserts.

Don't forget to try our organic potato starch and organic corn starch range for a healthier, natural option.