tapiokitärkkelys

Tapiokitärkkelys, also known as tapiokastarch, is a starchy flour made from the cassava root. Cassava is a shrub native to South America, but it is now cultivated in tropical regions around the world. The process of extracting tapioca starch involves washing, peeling, and then grating the cassava root. This grated material is then pressed to extract the starchy liquid, which is subsequently separated from the water through sedimentation or centrifugation, and then dried. The resulting powder is tapioca starch.

Tapiokitärkkelys is a white, odorless powder. It is a popular ingredient in gluten-free baking, as it provides a light and chewy texture to baked goods like bread, cookies, and cakes. It can also be used as a thickener for sauces, gravies, soups, and puddings, offering a clear and glossy finish. Due to its neutral flavor, it does not significantly alter the taste of the dishes it is added to. In some cuisines, tapioka pearls, made from tapioka starch, are used in desserts and beverages, such as bubble tea. The starch is also utilized in the production of biodegradable plastics and as a binder in pharmaceuticals. Its properties, including its thickening ability and texture-enhancing qualities, make it a versatile ingredient in both food and industrial applications.