We think xanthan gum is one of the best discoveries in food science since yeast. It is used as a thickener or stabilizer in a wide variety of foods found on grocery store shelves. Many canned or prepared products contain xanthan gum salad dressings, sauces, soups, and baked goodsparticularly those that are gluten free because xanthan gum can perform some of the same functions as gluten. Xanthan gum is one of the most useful food additives around it is effective in a wide range of viscosities, temperatures, and p. H levels. It is easy to use, has no taste, and generally works quite well. And it can thicken liquids at extremely low concentrationsas little as 0. Traditional thickeners like flour typically require far larger amounts to do a similar job. The quantity matters because the more thickener you have as a fraction of the total mixture the more likely it is to impose an undesirable texture and inhibit flavor. Ready to try xanthan gum Take a look at our recipe library for recipes forĀ Spinach Pesto, Jus Gras, and Wasabi Cream. Check back later this month, when well be showcasing more recipes from Modernist Cuisine at Home that use xanthan gum. Modernist Cuisine and. Modernist Cuisine at Home. Where To Find Xanthan Gum© 2017