Thickener

A thickener is a substance or ingredient used to increase the viscosity, density, or consistency of a liquid, sauce, or mixture. Primarily employed in cooking and food processing, thickeners work by absorbing water, gelling, or creating a network that traps liquid molecules, thereby making the substance more substantial and less runny. They often add texture and mouthfeel. Various types of thickeners exist, ranging from natural starches and flours to gums and modified ingredients. The choice of thickener depends on factors such as the desired final consistency, taste considerations, and the cooking process. Understanding the properties of different thickeners, including their gelling strength and heat stability, is essential for achieving the desired culinary results.

Thickener meaning with examples

• When making gravy, a common practice involves using a flour-based thickener. The flour is often mixed with cold water to form a slurry, which is then whisked into the hot liquid from the meat. This process creates a smooth, rich, and thickened gravy, perfect for serving with roast dishes. It helps add body and improves the overall mouthfeel.
• In the realm of dessert creation, cornstarch acts as an effective thickener for fruit pies and custards. It’s mixed with cold water to prevent clumping, then it’s stirred into the fruit filling. As the mixture heats, the cornstarch gelatinizes, creating a thickened, stable filling that will not run or seep when you cut the pie.
• For dairy-free recipes, such as almond-based ice creams, arrowroot starch often serves as an ideal thickener. Adding arrowroot to the mix, the starch helps create a creamy, smooth texture. Arrowroot works in place of dairy, creating a velvety mouthfeel. It also provides a more translucent appearance than some other thickeners.
• Chefs often utilize xanthan gum to thicken sauces, soups, and dressings. The gum is a powder, dispersed into the liquid, and as it hydrates it greatly increases the viscosity. The gum's ability to add stability, and prevent separation makes it ideal for salad dressings or emulsifying liquids.