What can you use instead of flour?

There are many flour substitutes you can use depending on what you're making and what kind of texture you want. Here are some common ones:

For gluten-free baking:

* Almond Flour: Great for cakes, cookies, and muffins. It's high in protein and fiber, and has a nutty flavor.

* Coconut Flour: Very absorbent, so it's often used in combination with other flours. It's high in fiber and has a slightly sweet coconut flavor.

* Rice Flour: Good for making pancakes, cakes, and cookies. It's light and fluffy, but can sometimes be dry.

* Tapioca Flour: Creates a chewy texture, great for thickening sauces and making mochi.

* Potato Starch: Used for thickening sauces and making gluten-free desserts.

* Buckwheat Flour: Has a nutty flavor and can be used for pancakes, bread, and cookies.

For thickening sauces and gravies:

* Cornstarch: Very effective thickening agent.

* Arrowroot Powder: Produces a clear, silky sauce, good for delicate sauces.

* Potato Starch: Creates a slightly cloudy sauce, good for everyday use.

* Tapioca Flour: Creates a thick and glossy sauce.

Other flour substitutes:

* Oat Flour: Made from ground oats, it's good for baking bread and cookies.

* Soy Flour: High in protein and can be used in baking and as a meat extender.

* Chickpea Flour: Also known as besan, it's great for making pancakes, breads, and savory dishes.

* Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy texture to breaded foods.

* Crushed Nuts: Used in place of flour for coating meats and vegetables.

Tips for using flour substitutes:

* Read the recipe carefully: Different flour substitutes have different absorption rates, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe.

* Start with a small amount: It's best to start with a smaller amount of substitute and gradually add more until you get the desired consistency.

* Experiment: Be open to trying different flour substitutes and see what you like best.

Note: While these are popular substitutes, there are many other options available depending on your dietary needs and preferences.