Air-Fryer Cornstarch Chunks: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Cornstarch chunks have recently become a popular snack, with people enjoying the crunchy texture. While cornstarch is edible in small amounts, it is unsafe to eat in large quantities. This recipe details how to make cornstarch chunks in an air fryer.

Recipe ingredients

To make cornstarch chunks in an air fryer, you will need:

• Cornstarch
• Water
• Flavourings (optional)

Cornstarch is a carbohydrate with minimal nutritional value, but its lack of gluten and its thickening properties have made it a popular pantry staple. This recipe utilises cornstarch's ability to solidify when cooked with minimal water.

You can add a touch of flavouring to your cornstarch chunks, such as a pinch of salt, sugar, or your favourite spice mix. Dry spices or extracts are best, as any additional moisture can affect the texture of the final product.

Method:

In a bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water until it forms a thick, mouldable dough. You may need to add slightly more water, depending on the brand of cornstarch. Add your chosen flavourings (if using) and mix well.

Press the dough firmly into a small oven-safe dish or mould. The flatter you press it, the easier it will be to break into chunks later.

Cover the dish tightly with aluminium foil. This will help trap moisture and create a more even cook.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Once preheated, place the dish with the cornstarch dough in the air fryer basket and cook for 45 minutes.

Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool completely (at least 2 hours, or overnight is recommended). The cornstarch chunks will be very fragile when hot.

Once cool, remove the aluminium foil and break the hardened cornstarch into bite-sized chunks.

Experiment with different flavourings and find what you like best. Just remember to always use dry flavourings to avoid affecting the texture.

Recipe method

Ingredients:

• Cornstarch
• Water
• Flavourings (optional)

Utensils:

• Bowl
• Oven-safe dish or mould
• Air fryer
• Aluminium foil

Method:

• Mix cornstarch and water in a bowl until it forms a thick, mouldable dough. You may need to add a little more water depending on the brand of cornstarch.
• (Optional) Add your chosen flavourings (e.g. a pinch of salt, sugar, or your favourite spice mix) and mix well.
• Press the dough firmly into a small oven-safe dish or mould. The flatter you press it, the easier it will be to break into chunks later.
• Cover the dish tightly with aluminium foil. This will help trap moisture and create a more even cook.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
• Once preheated, place the dish with the cornstarch dough in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 45 minutes.
• Carefully remove the dish from the air fryer and let it cool completely (at least 2 hours, or overnight is recommended). The cornstarch chunks will be very fragile when hot.
• Once cool, remove the aluminium foil and break the hardened cornstarch into bite-sized chunks.

How to get the right texture

To get the right texture for your cornstarch chunks, you'll need to follow a few important steps. Here's a detailed guide:

Packing the Cornstarch:

• Start by adding 2-3 spoonfuls of cornstarch to a paper-lined box or an old cornstarch box. Tap the bottom of the box against a table or counter to remove air and compact the cornstarch. Repeat this process until you've used up all your cornstarch.
• Use your fist or a hard object like a glass to further tamp down and compact the cornstarch. Remove any excess air by covering the box with the paper lining.
• For added compaction, squeeze the box with your hands or step on it. The cornstarch should feel hard and crunchy.

Preparing for the Air Fryer:

• Cover the box of compacted cornstarch with two layers of aluminium foil. This step is crucial to protect the cornstarch from burning and to help maintain its shape.
• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Place the covered box of cornstarch inside the air fryer and set the timer.

Cooking and Cooling:

• Cook the cornstarch in the air fryer for about 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn.
• Once the time is up, carefully remove the box from the air fryer and let it cool completely. The cornstarch will be fragile when hot, so be gentle.
• Place the cooled box in the freezer overnight. This step is essential to get the right texture—it helps the cornstarch chunks harden and become super crunchy.

Finalising the Chunks:

• After freezing, take the box out of the freezer and carefully remove the aluminium foil and paper lining. Your cornstarch should now be in the form of a block or large chunks.
• Break the cornstarch into bite-sized chunks. You can now enjoy the crunchy texture of your cornstarch chunks!

Note: Always use caution when handling cornstarch chunks as consuming large quantities can be unsafe. It's meant for playing with or adding a crunchy element to recipes, not for eating plain in large amounts.

How to flavour the cornstarch chunks

Cornstarch chunks can be flavoured in a variety of ways. The key thing to remember is to use dry flavourings, as any additional moisture can affect the texture of the cornstarch chunks.

Some popular flavouring options include:

• Salt
• Sugar
• Spice mixes (e.g. Cajun, ranch)
• Black cherry
• Toasty flavours
• Burnt popcorn

You can also experiment with different flavour combinations to find your favourite. For example, one person who reviewed the cornstarch chunks they made said that they made theirs with a little ranch seasoning, and that they were surprisingly addictive!

When adding flavourings, simply add your chosen flavouring agent to the cornstarch and water mixture, and mix well before pressing the mixture into a small oven-safe dish or mould.

How to store the cornstarch chunks

How to Store Cornstarch Chunks

Cornstarch chunks can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. However, it is important to note that the texture might soften slightly over time. To maintain the crunchy texture, it is recommended to consume the cornstarch chunks within a few days of preparation.

If you want to extend the shelf life of cornstarch chunks, consider storing them in the freezer. Place them in a sealed container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When stored in the freezer, the cornstarch chunks will retain their crunchy texture and can be enjoyed as a snack or used in various recipes.

Additionally, it is important to store cornstarch chunks in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to moisture can cause the cornstarch chunks to become soggy and lose their crispness.

For long-term storage, repackage the cornstarch chunks in airtight containers such as glass jars, plastic containers, Mylar bags, or number ten cans. This will help protect the cornstarch chunks from moisture, pests, and other contaminants, ensuring their quality over time.

When storing cornstarch chunks, it is also crucial to consider food safety. Keep the containers sealed tightly and store them in a clean area to prevent the growth of mould or bacteria. Regularly inspect the cornstarch chunks for any signs of spoilage, such as changes in colour, texture, or the presence of mould.

By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy your cornstarch chunks for a longer period while maintaining their texture and quality.

Frequently asked questions