What is Expandex?:
Expandex is a gluten-free starch made from modified tapioca starch. It is a white, odorless, flavorless powder, manufactured by Corn Products International, Westchester, IL. It does not contain wheat, rye, barley, oats or corn and is a certified gluten-free product.
Tapioca, also called cassava or manioc is a starch derived from the root of the tropical plant "Manihot esculenta." It is a flavorless source of carbohydrates used in gluten-free recipes to lighten texture and to thicken sauces.
What is Modified Starch?:
A modified starch is a naturally occurring starch that is processed to change the molecule structure and characteristics of the original starch. Modified starches are used as thickeners, stabilizers and can improve the shelf-life, appearance, texture and taste of foods.
Tips for Baking with Expandex:
Expandex is not a 1:1 replacement for flours that contain gluten. It performs best when used as a substitute for a portion of other gluten-free starches in gluten-free recipes and mixes.
Tips for using Expandex in gluten-free recipes and flour mixes
Tips for using Expandex in gluten-free recipes and flour mixes
Gluten-Free Recipes with Expandex:
At the Expandex website find 10 Gluten-Free Recipes with Expandex including:
- Gluten-Free White Bread
- Gluten-Free Pizza Crust
- Gluten-Free Hamburger Buns
- Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Gluten-Free Crackers
Where to Find Expandex:
Prepackaged Expandex can be purchased directly from these sources and is used in the formulations of the following gluten-free products:
Is Expandex Nutritious?:
Expandex, like cornstarch, potato starch and arrowroot starch, is primarily a source of refined carbohydrates. Refined starches are a source of energy in the form of calories.
Caloriecount.about.com shows that 100 grams / 3.5 ounces of Expandex Modified Tapioca Starch contains 419 calories, 104 grams of carbohydrates and 1.2 grams of protein.
Contact the Manufacturer of Expandex:
To learn more about Expandex email the manufacturer, Corn Products International at info@cornproducts.com.
Expandex - Why Use It?:
If you are looking for a way to improve the texture, taste and shelf-life of your gluten-free baked goods you may want to experiment with Expandex. Add it to your gluten-free flour mixes or try one of the commercial gluten-free flour mixes or products that contain Expandex.
By adding a portion of Expandex to homemade gluten-free flour mixes that contain nutritious gluten-free flours like buckwheat, sorghum, millet and amaranth, gluten-free cooks can achieve better baking results and at the same time, add nutritional value to gluten-free recipes.
