Have you ever wondered what the chewy pearls in your boba drink are made out of? Well, these are actually Tapioca pearls! Tapioca is cultivated from the cassava root, and hen formed into syrup, flour, and starch. Tapioca starch is a multipurpose and healthful ingredient that can improve your culinary creations. At Glucochem, we offer premium Native Tapioca Starch to satisfy your creativity in cooking and baking activities.
How Is Tapioca Starch Made?
The journey of tapioca starch begins with the cassava plant. Harvested roots are peeled and grated into a fine pulp. This pulp is then washed and soaked in water, allowing the starch to separate from the fibrous material. The extracted starch is dried and milled into a fine powder, resulting in the tapioca starch used in various recipes.
Nutritional Values of Tapioca Starch
Tapioca starch has a high starch content exceeding 84%, making it an excellent source of carbohydrates, and providing a quick energy source. Moreover, It contains minimal protein and ash, each constituting about 0.3% of its composition, and maintains a moisture level below 14%, ensuring its stability and shelf life. When stored properly, tapioca starch can last up to 24 months, providing a reliable pantry product for multiple cooking purposes.
Health Benefits of Tapioca Starch
Tapioca Starch isn’t limited to just being an instant energy source. This gluten-free starch is low in sodium and free from common allergens, making it suitable for various diets. Further health benefits include:
Supports Digestive Health
The resistant starch in tapioca acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and aiding digestion.
Allergen-Free
Tapioca starch is free from common allergens like gluten, nuts, and grains, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Healthy Alternative
Due to its minimal protein, sugar, and fat content, tapioca starch is low in calories and can be used in various healthy recipes. It reduces the use of butter, oil, cream, or dairy, making it suitable for individuals on low-calorie diets.
How You Can Be Creative with Tapioca Starch
The use of Tapioca starch in your recipes can vary from adding it as a thickening agent to crafting new desserts! Tapioca starch’s versatility makes it a valuable addition to your kitchen:
- Thickening Agent: As tapioca starch is odorless and tasteless, you can use it to thicken soups, sauces, and gravies without any change in their flavor.
- Baking: Improve the texture of gluten-free bread, cakes, and cookies by adding tapioca starch for a chewy consistency.
- Binding Agent: Improve the texture of meat products like sausages and meatballs by using tapioca starch as a binder.
- Desserts: Create delightful puddings, custards, and bubble tea pearls with tapioca starch and tapioca syrups for a unique and healthy mouthfeel.
Conclusion
Incorporating Native Tapioca Starch from Glucochem into your recipes not only gives you a better texture and flavor but also offers various health benefits. Explore our range of tapioca products to improve your recipes.
FAQs
Can tapioca starch be used in cold dishes?
Tapioca starch requires heat to activate its thickening properties. After heating, it maintains its consistency even when cooled, making it suitable for dishes served cold.
Is tapioca starch suitable for paleo diets?
Yes, tapioca starch is grain-free and aligns with paleo diet principles, making it a popular choice for those following this lifestyle.
How should tapioca starch be stored?
Store tapioca starch in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and prevent clumping.
Can tapioca starch replace cornstarch in recipes?
Yes, tapioca starch can substitute for cornstarch, often used in a 1:1 ratio, providing similar thickening effects.
Does tapioca starch have a strong flavor?
No, tapioca starch has a neutral taste, making it versatile for both sweet and savory dishes without altering the intended flavor profile.
