Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of cooking hacks, and I’m here to talk about one of my all-time favorites—cornstarch slurryfor thickening soups, gravies, and sauces. It sounds like something from a sci-fi movie, but trust me, it’s a kitchen superhero you need to know about.

glass bowl with water and Corn starch yellow corn and a metal spoon.

So, why do we make cornstarch slurry, you ask? Well, my friends, it answers many of life’s culinary conundrums. Whether you’rea seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie,this humble mixture can rescue you in a pinch.

One of the most common uses for this mixture isas a thickening agent.If you’ve ever made stir-fries, sauces, or soups, you know that achieving the perfect consistency can be tricky. This is where our hero steps in. When added to a simmering liquid, the starch particles in the slurry swell and thicken the sauce, turning it into aglossy, velvety masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First off, what is this magical concoction? The slurry is essentiallya simple mixture of cornstarch and water.It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3. Mix equal parts of cornstarch and cold water, give it a good stir, and voilà, you’ve got yourself a cornstarch slurry.
Cornstarch slurry doesn’t just thicken; itadds a beautiful sheen to your dishes. If you want your gravies and sauces to look like they belong in a five-star restaurant, this is your secret weapon.
Ever find yourself with an overly salty or spicy dish? We’ve all been there. Don’t worry;cornstarch slurry can save the day.Add a bit to your too-intense dish to dilute the flavors and bring things back to a balanced state.

Recipe Ingredients

Cornstarch
Cold water
Room temperature water

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to Make Cornstarch Slurry

Combine cornstarch and cold water.
Stir until it becomes a smooth paste.
Gradually add water while stirring until smooth.
Your cornstarch slurry is good to go!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use hot water to make a cornstarch slurry?

It is best to use cold water to mix the cornstarch initially, as hot water may cause the starch to clump. Once the corn starch has formed a smooth paste with cold water, you can gradually add warm or room-temperature water to create the slurry.

Can I store leftover corn starch slurry?

While it is best to use the slurry immediately, you can temporarily store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using it again, stir it a good bit, as it may separate.

Can I use a cornstarch slurry in desserts?

Yes, you can use a cornstarch slurry to thicken fruit fillings for pies like this classic Apple Hand Pie, this yummy Lemon Tart, or this Homemade Double Chocolate Pudding.

wooden cutting board with kernels of yellow corn glass bowl with white starch.

Expert Tips

Corn starch is gluten-free,making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
If you desire a thicker slurry,increase the amount of corn starch in the mixture.
You can reheat dishes thickened with cornstarch slurry. However,excessive reheating may cause the slurry to break down,affecting the dish’s consistency.