
Thickening a sauce without reaching for cornstarch or a roux made with questionable fats is easier than most people think, and arrowroot starch is the quiet hero that makes it happen. Just two ingredients β arrowroot and cold water β come together in seconds to create a silky slurry that transforms any broth, soup, or sauce into something glossy and beautifully coated. Unlike some conventional thickeners that can leave a starchy, opaque finish, arrowroot produces a clear, light sheen that looks genuinely restaurant-worthy. The technique is straightforward: whisk until smooth, stir it into a gently simmering liquid, and pull it off the heat the moment it thickens β usually within a minute. That last step matters more than you'd think, because arrowroot breaks down under prolonged high heat, so quick hands are rewarded with a perfect consistency every time. It's the kind of kitchen trick that quietly upgrades everything from pan drippings to fruit compotes, all without a drop of refined oil in sight.
Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more β4 servings


Combine the arrowroot starch and cold water in a small bowl and whisk or stir with a fork until completely smooth with no lumps remaining.
Bring the liquid you want to thicken (sauce, soup, or broth) to a gentle simmer in a saucepan over medium heat.
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!
