Tapioca starch is a versatile, gluten-free ingredient extracted from the root of the tapioca plant (Manihot esculenta). This product, also known as tapioca starch, is widely used in cooking for its ability to impart texture, lightness, and softness to a variety of dishes. Tapioca starch is odorless and tasteless, making it ideal for a wide range of culinary preparations.

If you are looking for a natural and gluten-free thickener, theNative Tapioca Starch is the answer! Its light, digestible texture makes it perfect for a wide range of recipes.

Properties of Tapioca Starch:

• Gelling agent: Adds texture and body to your dishes.
• Digestible: Perfect for those with food sensitivities.
• Gluten-free: Ideal for those on a gluten-free diet.
• Gut health: Contributes to the well-being of the digestive system.

Creative Uses:

• Cooking: Add tapioca starch to your soups, sauces and desserts for the perfect consistency.
• Bubble Tea: Explore tapioca beads (also called boba) to create unique and fun drinks.

What it's for:

Tapioca starch plays a vital role in cooking, as it can be used as a thickener, gelling agent, or simply as a gluten-free substitute for traditional flours. Here are some of its main uses:

1. Thickener for Sauces and Soups: Tapioca starch can be used to thicken sauces, soups and stews. Added in small amounts, it imparts a creamy texture without altering the flavor of dishes.

2. Gluten-Free Flour: This is an excellent choice for those on a gluten-free diet. It can be used to make gluten-free breads, cakes, cookies and other baked goods.

3. Light Pastry: Adding tapioca starch to cake recipes can make them light and fluffy. It is especially useful for making desserts such as muffins and pancakes.

4. Jellies and Creams: Tapioca starch is used to create silky jellies and creams, such as chocolate pudding or custard.

Two Recipes with Tapioca Starch:

1. Gluten-Free Pancakes with Tapioca Starch:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 cup tapioca starch
     • 1/2 cup of milk
     • 2 eggs
     • 2 tablespoons of sugar
     • 1 teaspoon baking powder
   • Instructions:
     1. In a bowl, mix tapioca starch, baking powder, and sugar.
     2. Add the eggs and milk and mix until smooth.
     3. Cook pancakes in a nonstick skillet until golden brown.
     4. Serve with maple syrup or fresh fruit.

2. Custard with Tapioca Starch:

   • Ingredients:
     • 2 cups of milk
     • 1/2 cup of sugar
     • 1/4 cup tapioca starch
     • 4 egg yolks
     • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
   • Instructions:
     1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and vanilla extract over medium heat.
     2. In a separate bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar and tapioca starch.
     3. When the milk is hot (without boiling), pour it slowly over the yolk mixture, stirring constantly.
     4. Return the mixture to the pot and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
     5. Cool and use as filling for cakes, pastries or puffs.

Bubble Tea with Tapioca Starch:

Bubble Tea is a popular drink in which tapioca starch plays a key role. The classic version includes tea, milk, sugar and tapioca pearls. Here's how to make it:

• Brew a cup of tea (black, green or other variety) and let it cool.
• Bake tapioca pearls following the proper recipes
• Mix the cooled tea with milk and sugar to taste.
• Add the tapioca pearls to the glass and pour the milk tea on top.
• Serve with a wide straw to suck up the tapioca pearls and enjoy this unique drink.

Other Uses in the Food Sector:

Tapioca starch is also used as a thickener in salad dressings, soups, and dessert sauces. It can be used to make gluten-free breads, pie shells, dumplings, and more. Its versatility and ability to create desirable textures make it a valuable ingredient in cooking, especially for those with special dietary needs.