How To Use Xanthan Gum To Thicken Soup: Full Guide

Last Updated on September 12, 2024 by Shari Mason

Xanthan gum is a multipurpose thickening agent that is frequently utilized in soups, sauces, and dressings. It has long been a popular choice in gluten-free baking and cooking, known for its unmatched thickness that cannot be replicated by any other agent.

This guide will teach you how to use xanthan gum to thicken soup, the best way to measure it, and how much to use. 

With the right technique and measurements, you can create a delicious and creamy soup that is sure to please.

5 Steps On Using Xanthan Gum To Thicken Soup

1. Measure the amount of xanthan gum you need for your recipe. A good rule of thumb is to use 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum for each cup of liquid in your soup.
2. Add the xanthan gum to a small bowl and mix it with a small amount of cold liquid from the soup. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is completely dissolved. 
3. Slowly add the xanthan gum mixture to the soup while stirring. 
4. Continue stirring the soup until it begins to thicken. 
5. Once the soup has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and serve.

Read:

• How To Thicken Up Chili In Slow Cooker?
• Substitute For Xanthum Gum In Ice Cream

What Is Xanthan Gum?

Xanthan gum [1] is a food additive derived from sugar found in corn, wheat, or soy. It is often used as a thickening agent in food products such as ice cream, salad dressings, and sauces. 

It is also a stabilizer and emulsifier, helping keep ingredients from separating. Xanthan gum is also found in some packaged foods and cosmetics and in some medicines. 

It has been studied for its potential health benefits, such as improving digestive health and lowering cholesterol, but more research is needed.

Read: How To Thicken Red Beans And Rice?

How To Make Xanthan Gum

Mix 1 cup of warm water with one teaspoon of xanthan gum powder to make xanthan gum. Stir the mixture vigorously with a whisk until no lumps remain. 

“I’m always trying to show versatility. I’m juggling, flipping fire, chewing gum and rhyming at the same time… on a unicycle while playing the drums.”

– MF Doom, Rapper

Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes, and then whisk again before using it in your recipe. If the recipe calls for a thicker consistency, add more xanthan gum. 

Be sure to store the xanthan gum mix in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Read: How To Thicken Store-Bought Frosting?

How To Use It To Thicken Gravy

To use xanthan gum to thicken gravy, start by adding a small amount of xanthan gum (1/2 teaspoon or less) to the gravy mixture. 

Next, whisk the mixture thoroughly, so the xanthan gum is completely dissolved. Then, add more xanthan gum while whisking the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. 

Finally, bring the gravy to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. The gravy should be thickened and ready to serve.

How To Use Xanthan Gum In Baking

Xanthan gum is a versatile thickening and stabilizing agent used in various baking recipes. It is especially useful for gluten-free baking as it helps to bind ingredients together, creating a dough-like consistency. 

To use xanthan gum in baking, add it to your recipe in the same amount as the flour. For best results, combine xanthan gum with the dry ingredients before combining them with the wet ingredients. 

For most baking recipes, 1/8 teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of flour should be sufficient.

How To Use It In Cosmetics

Xanthan gum is commonly used as a thickening agent in cosmetics [2] to help create a smooth texture and provide a long-lasting application.

It can be used as a base for creams, lotions, and other cosmetics. 

To use it, you should mix a small amount of xanthan gum with a small amount of water until it forms a paste. Then, add this paste to the other cosmetic ingredients and mix thoroughly. 

Finally, adjust the amount of xanthan gum to achieve the desired consistency.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Xanthan gum is a great way to thicken the soup without adding unnecessary calories or fat. 

It is easy to use, mixes well with liquids, and is a great alternative to other thickening agents like flour and cornstarch. 

So if you’re looking for a way to make your soup just a bit thicker, don’t forget to give xanthan gum a try.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/xanthan-gum
2. https://medlineplus.gov/cosmetics.html