
Tapioca Pearl Flour
Tapioca pearl flour, also known as tapioca starch or tapioca flour, is a fine, white powder derived from the cassava root. It's prized for its incredibly smooth texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. This gluten-free flour is often used as a thickening agent in sauces, soups, and stews, creating a glossy, clear finish. Tapioca pearl flour offers a chewy texture to baked goods when used in combination with other flours, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. It is essential for users to differentiate from regular tapioca starch, which is more coarsely ground. Tapioca Pearl Flour can improve texture in various recipes.
Common Uses
- Tapioca pearl flour is excellent for thickening sauces, gravies, and soups: Its neutral flavor and clarity after cooking makes it ideal for achieving a smooth, glossy consistency without altering the taste or appearance of the dish.
- Use tapioca pearl flour to create a chewy texture in gluten-free breads and baked goods: Combining it with other gluten-free flours adds a desirable elasticity and bounciness, mimicking the texture of gluten-containing products.
- Tapioca pearl flour is a key ingredient in bubble tea (boba): The flour is used to make the chewy tapioca pearls that are the signature of the drink, with a unique and satisfying texture.
- Tapioca pearl flour contributes to crispy coatings for fried foods: When used in a batter or dredging mix, it helps to create a light and crispy exterior on fried chicken, vegetables, or seafood, by absorbing excess moisture.
- Tapioca pearl flour is a primary component in gluten-free desserts such as mochi and puddings: Its smooth texture and thickening properties make it perfect for creating creamy, delicate desserts with a slightly chewy texture.
- Tapioca pearl flour stabilizes pie fillings and prevents weeping: Adding a small amount to fruit pie fillings helps to bind the juices and prevent the filling from becoming watery during baking, resulting in a perfectly set pie.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
358.0kcal (17.9%)
Protein
0.2g (0.38%)
Carbs
88.7g (32.25%)
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
358.0kcal (17.9%)
Protein
0.2g (0.38%)
Carbs
88.7g (32.25%)
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- May aid in digestion due to its starch content, providing easily digestible carbohydrates.
- Naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Can be a source of resistant starch, which may promote gut health and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Provides a source of energy, being primarily composed of carbohydrates.
- Relatively low in fat, protein, and fiber, so should be consumed as part of a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods.
- May be useful as a binding agent in gluten-free baking, improving the texture of baked goods.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Tapioca pearl flour should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. This helps to prevent clumping and maintain its quality. Properly stored, it can last for up to two years. For longer storage or in humid environments, consider refrigerating or freezing the flour in an airtight container.
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