(corn starch)What Is Corn Flour?

corn starch(corn starch)

What Is Corn Flour?

You may have seen corn flour in the baking aisle but didn’t know how to use it. Often overshadowed by cornmeal, corn flour is a versatile and ultra-fine flour that’s worth stocking in your pantry. Here, you'll learn everything about corn flour and how to make it at home.

What Exactly Is Corn Flour?

Corn flour is made by milling dried whole corn kernels. As a whole grain flour, it includes the corn’s hull, germ, and endosperm. It’s typically yellow but can also be white or blue, depending on the corn variety. The texture is smooth and fine, similar to whole wheat flour.

When combined with binders like eggs, corn flour adds structure to baked goods. While it doesn’t taste good raw, cooking it through baking, frying, or grilling unlocks its sweet, earthy flavor. Corn flour can be used in breads, muffins, waffles, pancakes, and fried foods.

Masa Harina vs. Corn Flour

Masa harina is another staple of Mexican cuisine, similar to corn flour, but it’s made by soaking corn kernels in limewater. Masa harina is used for tortillas, tamales, and pupusas. Popular brands include Maseca and Bob's Red Mill, both available in grocery stores.

Cornmeal vs. Corn Flour

Both cornmeal and corn flour are made from dried corn but differ in texture. Cornmeal is gritty, while corn flour is finely ground. The two can be used interchangeably, but using one in place of the other will change the texture. Cornmeal adds a coarser texture to muffins or pancakes, while corn flour provides a finer, softer texture to baked goods.

Cornstarch vs. Corn Flour

Cornstarch and corn flour are both derived from corn but serve different purposes. Cornstarch, a white powder, is used as a thickener in sauces and soups. Unlike corn flour, which uses whole kernels, cornstarch is made only from the endosperm. In the U.K., cornstarch is known as cornflour, so be mindful when following recipes.

How to Make Corn Flour at Home

Making corn flour at home is simpler than you might think. You’ll need dried corn, such as popcorn kernels, and a high-powered blender like a Vitamix or Blendtec. Add the kernels to the blender, filling it halfway, and blend on high until a fine powder forms. Store the corn flour in an airtight container in the fridge for several days or in the freezer for up to six months.

What to Make with Corn Flour

Corn flour is perfect for enhancing the flavor and texture of various dishes. Use it to bread fish or vegetables for frying, or add it to pancake or waffle batter. It’s also great for baking breads, muffins, and cakes. You can mix corn flour with other flours like all-purpose or whole wheat to experiment with texture.

Here are some recipes to try with corn flour:

• Will’s Spicy New Orleans Catfish Fries
• Pizza Crust Fantastico
• Corn and Poppy Seed Loaf
• Cornmeal Cake
• Butternut Squash Cakes

Corn flour is a versatile pantry staple that can elevate both savory and sweet dishes!