Replacement for file powder
File powder isn't sold locally. I know it is made from Sassafras leaves, but I don't recall ever seeing those locally either. What are my options for a something that is more common that I might use as a substitute?
Best Answer
File powder is mostly used for thickening gumbo, and there are two schools of thought on that (armed with shotguns and rifles, so trifle with them at your peril): file gumbo and okra gumbo.
A file gumbo is thickened with file (typically added by the diner at before eating the gumbo), as mentioned. An okra gumbo is thickened with... well.. okra.
It is possible, but not traditional, to combine the two in the same recipe.
If gumbo is your goal, consider making a an okra version.
Otherwise, if you are using it for its unique flavor, there probably is no substitution. If you are using it for its thickening properties, depending on the recipe, you might try a roux, cornstarch, or arrowroot.
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Quick Answer about "Replacement for file powder"
- Okra.
- Cornstarch.
- Arrowroot Powder.
- Eggplant.
- Nopales.
- Root Beer.
What can you use in place of filé powder?
Top 5 Fil\xe9 Powder Substitutes- Okra. Okra. Okra is a typical ingredient in traditional gumbo. ...
- Roux. Roux. Roux is a common starter for many kinds of sauces, soups, stews, and desserts. ...
- Cornstarch. Cornstarch. Cornstarch is a common thickening agent in almost everything. ...
- Arrowroot Powder. Arrowroot powder.
How do I make filé powder?
InstructionsIs filé powder necessary for gumbo?
While you can certainly make gumbo without it, we like the spice's earthy, slightly floral flavor. If you can't find fil\xe9 powder at a supermarket or gourmet store, order it from penzeys.com.What ingredients are in filé powder?
Fil\xe9 (pronounced \u201cFEE-lay\u201d) powder is the ground, dried leaves of the sassafras tree. A traditional ingredient in the cuisines of Louisiana, it smells like eucalyptus and adds an earthy flavor. It's not merely a spice; fil\xe9 also thickens gumbos and other soups.how to make file powder
More answers regarding replacement for file powder
Answer 2
For thickening,flour or corn starch would be the route I would go. And for (feelay) file substitute flavoring, I use root beer where water is called for. Hard to tell the difference if you even can.
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