Tapioca Starch vs Rice Flour
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 5.6%. Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe.
Calories per 100 g: Tapioca Starch 358 kcal vs Rice Flour 366 kcal. Difference: 8 kcal — Rice Flour is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Tapioca Starch | Rice Flour |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 8 g | 8 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 2.7 g | 2.7 g |
| 1 cup | 125 g | 130 g |
| Density | 0.52 g/ml | 0.55 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
Tapioca makes glossy fillings, unlike cornstarch which gives matte finish. Use 1:2 ratio if substituting cornstarch.
Rice flour and glutinous rice flour look similar but behave very differently. Rice flour: harder texture when cooked. Glutinous: chewy and sticky. Don't substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Tapioca Starch be substituted for Rice Flour?▾
Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe. Density of Tapioca Starch is 0.52 g/ml; Rice Flour is 0.55 g/ml — a 5.6% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Tapioca Starch vs Rice Flour?▾
1 tbsp Tapioca Starch ≈ 8 g. 1 tbsp Rice Flour ≈ 8 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Tapioca Starch = 1.00 tbsp Rice Flour.
Which has more calories, Tapioca Starch or Rice Flour?▾
Per 100 g: Tapioca Starch 358 kcal, Rice Flour 366 kcal. Rice Flour has 8 more kcal.
What is Tapioca Starch typically used for?▾
Tapioca Starch is commonly used in: fruit pies, boba pearls, Brazilian cheese bread, gluten-free baking. Source: usda-fdc.
What is Rice Flour typically used for?▾
Rice Flour is commonly used in: Asian desserts, rice noodles, tempura batter, gluten-free baking. Source: usda-fdc.