Here’s your cheat sheet. If you want thickening without flavor? Cornstarch. If you want flavor with texture? Cornmeal.
Can you substitute? Yes, but only if you’re making rustic dishes. Think chili, stews, or slow-cooked beans. For anything delicate—sauces, pies, puddings—do not.
Honestly? Just buy a box of cornstarch. They’re like two dollars. But if you’re feeling wild and own a bag of cornmeal? Go make some crunchy fried chicken instead. You’ll thank me later.
Now pass the coffee. And maybe some cornbread.