Flour is a staple ingredient in many recipes, but with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Today I want to explore the differences between tigernut flour and all-purpose flour, which offer some unique benefits.
Whether you’re trying to cut down on gluten or simply curious about trying new ingredients, this guide has everything you need to know about tigernut flour and all-purpose flour.
Comparing tigernut flour vs all-purpose flour
Tigernut flour | All-purpose flour | |
Substitution ratio (vs all-purpose) | 3:4 | N/A |
Gluten-free? | Yes | No |
Keto-friendly? | Somewhat – in small amounts it is okay, but the nut itself is not exactly low carb. | No |
Paleo-friendly? | Yes | No |
Common Allergens | Possibly some pollen allergens, but considered extremely hypoallergenic. | Wheat, gluten |
Liquid absorbency | Medium | Medium |
Pantry shelf life (unopened/sealed) | 2 weeks | 6-8 months |
Best for | Paleo cookies, scones and brownies | Non-yeast recipes (think cookies, biscuits, and some breads) |
To start, let’s discuss what exactly tigernut flour is since many individuals may not be familiar with it. Tigernut flour (also known as chufa flour or earth almond flour) is made from ground tigernuts, which are small root vegetables that grow in the Mediterranean and Africa.
Despite its name, tigernuts are not actually nuts, but rather small tubers that resemble sweet potatoes in shape and size, with distinctive stripes on their outer layer – this is where it gets its name from. With its versatility and nutritional value, tigernut flour may just become your go-to ingredient when baking!
Differences between tigernut flour and all-purpose flour
Tigernut flour is gluten-free and grain-free, making it a great choice for those following gluten-free or paleo diets. It’s best used on its own or combined with other gluten-free flours like almond flour or coconut flour. All-purpose flour, on the other hand, can be used for all types of recipes including breads, cakes, muffins and cookies.
When deciding which one you should use, consider your dietary needs as well as the type of recipe you are making.
Baking with tigernut flour vs all-purpose flour
Tigernut flour tends to be more dense than wheat flour due to its high fat content, resulting in heavier baked goods like cakes and muffins. For this reason, it is best to combine it with other flours such as almond flour or coconut flour to achieve the desired texture.
Tigernut flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour in some recipes, such as pancakes, waffles, and muffins. However, it may not work well in recipes that require gluten to provide structure and elasticity, such as bread.
Because tigernut flour is denser, it absorbs slightly more liquid. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe, adding a little more than you would with all-purpose flour.
Tigernut flour has a unique flavor that can add a nutty taste to your baked goods. I love experimenting with recipes to find the best ways to use new flours to complement the flavors of my favorite treats!
Ingredients in tigernut flour vs all-purpose flour
Tigernut flour is made from ground tigernuts. No other ingredients are typically added to tigernut flour, making it a pure and natural ingredient.
When purchasing tigernut flour, it is important to read all labels carefully to ensure that you are buying a natural product free of any chemicals or additives.
All-purpose flour is a blend of different types of wheat flour, typically a combination of hard and soft wheat. The exact composition of all-purpose flour can vary depending on the brand and the region where it’s produced, but it typically contains wheat flour, and may have additives such as malted barley flour, vitamins, and minerals. Some all-purpose flours are enriched, meaning that certain vitamins and minerals have been added back into the flour after processing.
Tigernut flour + all-purpose flour nutritional facts
Per ¼ cup serving | Tigernut flour | All-purpose flour |
Calories | 150 | 110 |
Carbs (g) | 19 | 23 |
Fiber (g) | 10 | 1 |
Fat (g) | 7 | 0 |
Protein (g) | 2 | 4 |
Glycemic index score | 25-30 | 85 |
Tigernut flour contains significantly higher amounts of protein and fiber than all-purpose flour, making it a great choice for those looking to up their nutrient intake in baking recipes. It also has more healthy fats and minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc than wheat flour. All-purpose flour has more calories and carbohydrates per serving, and a much higher glycemic index score (yikes!).
Tigernut flour vs all-purpose flour storage
Both tigernut flour and all-purpose flour should be stored in a cool, dry place. Tigernut flour is more susceptible to spoilage due to its high fat content, so it’s best to store it in the refrigerator or freezer if you won’t be using it within a few weeks. All-purpose flour can be stored at room temperature for up to six months.
Tigernut flour vs all-purpose flour: Understanding all the differences
Choosing between tigernut flour and all-purpose flour for any given recipe is a matter of personal preference, taste, and dietary needs. If you’re a fan of nutty flavors and need a gluten-free option, tigernut flour might be the way to go. However, if you’re a baking traditionalist or want to make sure your flour is versatile enough to use in a variety of recipes, all-purpose flour is the tried and true option. So why not experiment with both and see which one suits your baking needs and taste buds best?
FAQ
Tigernut flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour in some recipes, but it’s not a direct 1:1 replacement due to its unique properties, including being gluten-free and having a denser texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor. In my experience, adjustments to the recipe are often necessary for optimal results.
Yes, good substitutes for tigernut flour include other nut flours, such as almond or hazelnut flour, as well as coconut flour, which can also be used as a gluten-free alternative in baking and cooking.
Yes, tigernut flour is a good option for baking, especially in recipes that are naturally gluten-free, such as cookies, cakes, and muffins, and it can add a unique flavor and texture to baked goods.
Kendra
How would I convert 5 cups of regular flour to tigernut flour
Erin Higa
Start with around 4 cups of tigernut flour, and add in more if needed until you reach your desired consistency.