Use the Power of Xanthan Gum for Cooking and Baking

Xanthan Gum is a food additive made from sugar fermented by particular bacteria (Xanthomonas campestris). Despite the word “sugar” in that sentence, xanthan gum powder is carb-free and completely keto-friendly. Moreover, it’s also 100% vegan and is an excellent option for gluten-free baking. It’s also a food thickener and replaces starch or cornstarch in sauces and adds the dough’s necessary viscosity. Do not mistake xanthan gum powder for guar gum. Both types of gum have similar properties. However, guar gum is less stable and comes from a plant. Also, guar gum’s thickening effects are neutralized by acids. Therefore, for any recipes with citrus fruits, you should use xanthan gum. But you can also use a mix of both gum powders for maximum effect, especially in vegan baking.

Xanthan Gum Uses for Baking and Cooking

The most common application of this product is to use xanthan gum for baking. It’s an excellent component to yeast bread, but you can incorporate it into any gluten-free recipe as well. Use 1 tsp of powder per a cup of flour for cakes and 2 tsp for bread. Another idea is to use xanthan gum as a thickener in sauces, stews, and soups. Be very careful and experiment with proportions to find out what works best for your favorite recipes. When using xanthan gum, buy in bulk because it can last for years. As long as you keep it dry in an airtight container, you’ll be able to use xanthan gum powder for three years at the least. It’s unnecessary to store it in the fridge, but it is imperative to keep it away from humidity.