The effects of cross-linked tapioca starches on batter properties
and oil absorption in crust of fried chicken were evaluated in this
study. It was found that the replacement of 20% (w/w) cross-linked
tapioca starches for wheat flour in the batter formulation significantly
reduced water retention capacity and consistency index of
the batter. However, the batter pick-up and cooked yield were
not significantly affected. The reduction in consistency index was
predominantly due to the dilution effect on starch and proteins
in wheat flour. Furthermore, the use of the cross-linked tapioca
starches in the batter formulation significantly reduced oil content
in crust samples. The amount of relative oil reduction was found to
be positively correlated with the extent of cross-linking of starch
substituted for wheat flour. The substitution of highly cross-linked
starch with the increasing starch or water contents resulted in the
higher oil reduction in the crust