Both xanthan gum and psyllium husk are popular ingredients used in all types of recipes. They have numerous similarities but some important differences as well.
In this article you will learn everything you need to know about using psyllium husk and xanthan gum so you know which to use in your recipe.
So no matter what you are making, after reading this article you will know how to best use each of these popular ingredients.
Xanthan Gum and Psyllium Husk Differences and Similarities
Many recipes call for either psyllium husk or xanthan gum and these ingredients can be used as a stabilizer, thickener, binding agent, or even a texture enhancement in baked goods.
While they both have a number of similar uses, read on to find out whether you should use xanthan gum or psyllium husk in your dish.
What is Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a popular gluten free and vegan friendly ingredient used as a thickener and stabilizer in all types of recipes.
Xanthan gum is produced by fermenting sugar to which alcohol is added. It is then dried and crushed into a powder.
Xanthan gum is an insoluble fiber.
Related: Xanthan Gum Substitutes
Xanthan Gum Uses
Xanthan gum is popularly used as a thickening agent in gluten free and vegan recipes. It is particularly popular in baked goods and sauces where flour or cornstarch are not ideal.
Xanthan gum is used in everything from cookies, cakes, and other baked goods, to making sauces, glazes, and marinades.
What is Psyllium Husk
Also known as psyllium fiber, psyllium husk is an ingredient derived from the seeds of the psyllium plant.
The outer layer of the psyllium plant seed is removed and is crushed into a fine powder. Psyllium husk is a largely comprised of fiber which is where it’s most popular uses derives from.
Psyllium Husk Uses
Psyllium husk has numerous uses in the kitchen. It is a great thickening agent, texture enhancer and binding agent that has grown in popularity in recent years.
Psyllium husk is used in all types of recipes. It is a popular gluten free ingredient in all sorts of baked goods.
It can be used to make everything from cookies and cake to bread and pizza crust.
Xanthan Gum and Psyllium Husk FAQ
Can you substitute xanthan gum for psyllium husk?
Yes, xanthan gum can be used instead of psyllium husk in most recipes. Both of these ingredients provide a similar role in recipes. Use a 1:1 ratio when replacing psyllium husk with xanthan gum.
Can you substitute psyllium husk for xanthan gum?
Yes, psyllium husk can be used as a replacement for xanthan gum in almost any recipe. Use a 1:1 ratio of psyllium husk to xanthan gum when subbing it in your recipe.
Is psyllium husk and xanthan gum the same?
No, xanthan gum is produced by fermenting sugar and adding alcohol to it. It is then dried and ground into a fine powder. Psyllium husk is produced by grinding the outer shell of the seeds of the psyllium plant and grinding that into a fine powder.
What does xanthan gum do in baking?
Xanthan gum is used to bind gluten free flour in gluten free recipes. It takes the place of gluten in many recipes and is an important ingredient in gluten free cooking and baking.