Xanthan Gum vs Arrowroot: 7 Differences You Need To Know

If you’re looking to thicken your soups, sauces, or gravies, you may have considered using a thickening agent.

Xanthan gum and arrowroot are popular options, but which should you choose?

Xanthan gum is an additive produced from bacteria that infect various plants; it’s commonly used as a thickener and emulsifier in a wide range of foods, such as salad dressings, ice cream, and even toothpaste.

On the other hand, arrowroot is a starch made from the root of tropical plants; it’s often used as a thickener in gluten-free and paleo recipes, as it can mimic the texture of gluten.

Both xanthan gum and arrowroot can help thicken your recipes, but they have some differences.

For instance, xanthan gum is more potent than arrowroot, so you’ll need less of it to achieve the same level of thickness.

Additionally, arrowroot may break down if boiled too long, while xanthan gum can withstand high temperatures.

Keep reading to learn more about the differences between these thickeners and which may be best for your recipe.

What Is Xanthan Gum?

Xanthan gum is an additive used as a thickener in food products; the process of making xanthan gum includes the fermentation of corn sugar with a bacterium called Xanthomonas campestris.

This process creates a gel-like substance that is then dried and ground into a fine powder.

One of the benefits of xanthan gum is that it has potent thickening abilities.

In fact, just a small amount can thicken a significant amount of liquid; for example, one teaspoon of xanthan gum can thicken one cup of liquid, while two tablespoons of xanthan gum can thicken one gallon of liquid.

Xanthan gum is also a soluble fiber, meaning it can dissolve in water.

This property makes it a popular choice for many food products, including salad dressings, sauces, and baked goods.

As a common food additive, xanthan gum has been extensively tested and is generally considered safe for consumption.

However, some people may have an allergy or sensitivity to xanthan gum, so it is essential to be aware of this when using it in food products.

If you are looking for an alternative to xanthan gum, several substitutes are available, including arrowroot, guar gum, and cornstarch.

These substitutes can be used similarly to xanthan gum but may have slightly different thickening power or ratios.

Overall, xanthan gum is a versatile and effective food thickener commonly used in many food products.

What Is Arrowroot?

Arrowroot is a substance extracted from the arrowroot plant rootstock with a starch-like texture; it is a gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and vegan thickening agent that has been used for centuries in cooking and baking.

Arrowroot powder is a fine powder that is odorless, tasteless, and easily digestible.

Arrowroot is a popular substitute for cornstarch and flour in recipes that require a thickening agent, commonly used in sauces, gravies, puddings, and pie fillings.

Arrowroot thickens at a lower temperature compared to cornstarch and is suitable for thickening acidic foods; it also produces a transparent and glossy texture, making it an excellent choice for fruit-based desserts.

Arrowroot powder is easy to use in recipes; it can be mixed with cold water to form a slurry and then added to the recipe.

The general rule of thumb is to use one tablespoon of arrowroot powder for every cup of liquid in the recipe; it can also be used as a substitute for other thickeners like cornstarch, tapioca starch, or potato starch.

Arrowroot is an excellent ingredient to use in both sweet and savory recipes; it is a healthy alternative to traditional thickeners like cornstarch and flour, as it is low in calories and has no nutritional value.

Arrowroot powder is also a great option for people with dietary restrictions, as it is gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and vegan.

Overall, arrowroot is a valuable ingredient to have in your pantry, especially if you want to add a thickening agent to your recipes without compromising on taste or health.

Differences Between Xanthan Gum And Arrowroot

Xanthan gum and arrowroot are both used as thickening agents in various food products.

However, you should be aware of several differences between these two ingredients when using them in your favorite recipes.

1. Source

Xanthan gum is a white powder made from a microorganism called Xanthomonas campestris.

On the other hand, arrowroot is a starch extracted from the roots of tropical plants such as cassava, arrowroot, and tapioca.

2. Taste

Arrowroot has a neutral taste and is often used in sweet dishes because it does not affect the flavor of the food.

In contrast, xanthan gum has a slightly sour taste, which can be noticeable in recipes that use acidic ingredients.

3. Texture

Xanthan gum creates a gel-like substance when mixed with cold liquids, while arrowroot creates a smooth texture.

Xanthan gum is a popular choice for gluten-free baking because it helps create an airy and fluffy texture that is desirable in many recipes.

4. Quantity Needed

Xanthan gum is more potent than arrowroot and requires less to achieve the same thickening effect.

For example, one tablespoon of arrowroot powder is equivalent to one teaspoon of xanthan gum.

5. Compatibility with Different Ingredients

Arrowroot is an excellent substitute for cornstarch and can be used in a wide range of recipes, including savory and sweet dishes.

On the other hand, Xanthan gum is a popular substitute for gluten-free flour and is often used in vegan recipes.

6. Availability

You can find arrowroot powder in most grocery stores, health food stores, and online retailers.

Xanthan gum is also widely available in grocery stores and online but may be harder to find in some areas.

7. Glossy Finish

Arrowroot is a common thickening agent in recipes that require a glossy finish.

It is often used in sauces, puddings, and other sweet dishes to create a smooth and shiny texture.

On the other hand, Xanthan gum does not provide a glossy finish and is better suited for creating a smooth and consistent texture.

In conclusion, both xanthan gum and arrowroot are essential ingredients in many recipes, but they have different properties that make them suitable for other applications.

Understanding the differences between these two ingredients allows you to choose the right one for your dietary restrictions, taste preferences, and desired texture.

Xanthan Gum vs. Arrowroot: are they the same?

In summary, both xanthan gum and arrowroot are natural thickeners used in a variety of food products.

Xanthan gum is an additive that acts as a thickening and emulsifying agent, while arrowroot is a starch made from the root of specific tropical plants and used as a thickener.

When comparing the two, it’s essential to consider their properties and uses.

Xanthan gum is more versatile and can be used in a broader range of products, including baked goods, sauces, and dressings; it also has a stronger binding ability, making it a popular choice for gluten-free baking.

However, it can sometimes create a slimy or gummy texture in high concentrations.

Arrowroot, on the other hand, is a great alternative for those looking for a natural thickener; it has a neutral flavor and can be used in a number of dishes, such as soups, gravies, and sauces.

It’s also a good choice for those with digestive issues, as it’s easy to digest and doesn’t cause bloating or gas.

Ultimately, the choice between xanthan gum and arrowroot depends on your preferences and your specific recipe.

Both thickeners have their own unique properties and benefits, so it’s important to experiment and find the one that works best for you.