WHYS.video

Why Is My Sauce Not Thickening with Cornstarch? Top Tips to Fix It

Learn why your sauce isn't thickening with cornstarch and how to fix it with the right heat and slurry technique for perfect consistency.

Published

Video transcript

Your sauce may not thicken with cornstarch if it’s not hot enough; the mixture must reach a boil for cornstarch to activate. Ensure you’ve used the right ratio of cornstarch to liquid; typically, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to 1 cup of liquid is sufficient. Mix cornstarch with a cold liquid first to create a slurry before adding it to the hot sauce to prevent clumping.

Questions and answers

  1. Why does cornstarch not thicken my sauce?

    Cornstarch won't thicken your sauce if the mixture isn't brought to a boil or if the cornstarch ratio to liquid is incorrect.

  2. How do I properly use cornstarch to thicken a sauce?

    Create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a cold liquid before adding it to your hot sauce, then heat until it boils to activate thickening.

  3. Can I add cornstarch directly to hot sauce to thicken it?

    No, adding cornstarch directly to hot sauce can cause clumping. Always mix it with cold liquid first to make a slurry.