Substitute for Tapioca (Cassava): 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for tapioca (cassava) is Cornstarch at a Use 75% ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Cornstarch
Use 75%
Cornstarch works as a substitute for tapioca (cassava) in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than tapioca (cassava), so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. This option keeps the swap gluten-free. It is especially useful in baking.
What are the other substitutes for tapioca (cassava)?
Arrowroot Powder
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Arrowroot Powder in place of tapioca (cassava) when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than tapioca (cassava), so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Potato Starch
Same amount (1:1)
Potato Starch is a workable stand-in for tapioca (cassava). Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting tapioca (cassava)?
Cornstarch is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to tapioca (cassava) in everyday cooking. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Focus on whether you need the closest flavor, the right texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
How do you substitute tapioca (cassava) in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for tapioca (cassava) and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Cornstarch is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 75% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role tapioca (cassava) plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for tapioca (cassava) depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Cornstarch (Use 75%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Arrowroot Powder (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Arrowroot Powder in place of tapioca (cassava) when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. This option is more concentrated than tapioca (cassava), so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. It is especially useful in sauces. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting tapioca (cassava), consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Tapioca (Cassava)?
Cornstarch is the best place to start for tapioca (cassava). Use 75% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Tapioca (Cassava)?
This page lists 3 substitutes for tapioca (cassava). The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.