Rice Flour Substitute for Cornstarch: Exact Ratio
Looking for a cornstarch substitute? Rice Flour works as a direct replacement. Use 2 tbsp rice flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch in any recipe that calls for cornstarch. This swap works best for stir-fry sauces, breading, tempura.
Best Substitute
Rice Flour
2 tbsp rice flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch
Use twice as much. Creates a slightly grainier texture in sauces. Works well for frying and breading as a coating. Colorless and flavorless.
Flavor & Texture Change
Very mild, slightly sweet flavor. Creates a less glossy, more matte sauce than cornstarch. Works well in baked goods and as a coating for frying.
When Not to Use
Needs 2x the amount of cornstarch. Takes longer to thicken and requires more cooking time. Creates a slightly grittier texture in delicate sauces. Better for baking than sauce-thickening.
Tips When Replacing Cornstarch in Recipes
Always mix cornstarch or its substitutes with cold liquid before adding to hot liquids to prevent lumps. This is called a slurry. Most starch thickeners lose their power if overcooked or if the sauce is too acidic. Arrowroot is better for acidic sauces; flour is better for opaque gravies.
What Is Cornstarch and Why Substitute It?
A pure starch extracted from corn kernels, used primarily as a thickener for sauces, gravies, and pie fillings, and as a component in gluten-free baking.
Rice Flour is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of cornstarch. For a complete list of cornstarch substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full cornstarch substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Cornstarch?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rice flour instead of cornstarch?
Yes, you can use rice flour as a substitute for cornstarch. Use 2 tbsp rice flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch. Use twice as much. Creates a slightly grainier texture in sauces. Works well for frying and breading as a coating. Colorless and flavorless.
How much rice flour equals cornstarch?
Use 2 tbsp rice flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch to replace cornstarch with rice flour. Works best for stir-fry sauces, breading, tempura.
What is the best substitute for cornstarch?
Rice Flour is a popular substitute for cornstarch. Use 2 tbsp rice flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our cornstarch substitute page.
Does rice flour change the taste when replacing cornstarch?
Needs 2x the amount of cornstarch. Takes longer to thicken and requires more cooking time. Creates a slightly grittier texture in delicate sauces. Better for baking than sauce-thickening.
Is rice flour a vegan substitute for cornstarch?
Yes, rice flour is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to cornstarch. Use 2 tbsp rice flour per 1 tbsp cornstarch.