Xanthan Gum

Xantha-what? It sounds more like a sci-fi villain than a baking ingredient, but xanthan (ZAN-thuhn) gum is a crucial ingredient in gluten-free recipes for the springy quality it can lend to dough. Xanthan gum is an all-natural ingredient made from fermented corn sugar. It keeps indefinitely in a cool, dry place. Find it at most grocery stores in the natural-food or gluten-free section, or buy it online.