Shaheen Shingoda Flour

Water chestnut flour is made from dried, ground water chestnuts. The nuts are boiled, peeled and then ground into flour. The flour, which is actually a starch rather than flour is white cream in colour.
Its primary use is as a thickening agent and to make batters for deep frying in Indian and Asian cooking. When used as a thickener, water chestnut flour is usually stirred into water first before it is added to hot liquids and sauces. This technique reduces the formation of lumps that may otherwise occur (similar to cornstarch). Foods that are to be fried can be dredged in water chestnut flour to create a coating on the food. Water chestnut flour is available in some large food stores, natural and health food stores, and in Asian markets.