To add cornflour to a slow cooker, mix one tablespoon of cornflour with an equal amount of water, then add this mixture directly to the slow cooker pot and turn the setting to high. This method effectively thickens sauces that have become too thin during the cooking process.
How to Thicken Slow Cooker Sauces with Cornflour
Cornflour is an excellent thickening agent for slow cooker meals, particularly when your sauce or gravy turns out too watery. It's best added towards the end of the cooking cycle to achieve the desired consistency.
When to Add Cornflour
Cornflour should be added at the end of the cooking time. This allows the other ingredients to cook thoroughly and prevents the sauce from becoming overly thick too early, which can affect the overall texture of the dish. It's the ideal solution if you've added too much liquid or your ingredients have released a lot of moisture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Cornflour
Adding cornflour to your slow cooker is a straightforward process that involves just a few simple steps:
- Prepare the Slurry: Take one tablespoon of cornflour and mix it with an equal amount of water. Stir well until a smooth, lump-free paste (often called a slurry) is formed. This prevents the cornflour from clumping when it hits the hot liquid in the slow cooker.
- Add to Pot: Carefully pour the cornflour mixture directly into the slow cooker pot, distributing it evenly into the sauce.
- Increase Heat: Immediately turn the slow cooker setting to high. The increased heat will help the cornflour activate and thicken the sauce more quickly and efficiently.
- Stir and Wait: Stir the sauce thoroughly to ensure the cornflour is fully incorporated. Allow it to cook on high for about 15-30 minutes, or until the sauce begins to visibly thicken.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
The beauty of using cornflour is its flexibility. You can repeat the process as many times as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. If the sauce isn't thick enough after the first application, simply prepare another tablespoon of cornflour with an equal amount of water, add it to the pot, and continue cooking on high, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reaches the perfect richness and body.
