⭐ Rice Flour (Best Gluten-Free Option)
3/4 cup rice flour per 1 cup cake flourRice flour is mostly starch and low in protein, making it a decent thickener that can substitute cake flour’s tenderizing effect. However, its granularity can cause a slightly gritty texture in the sauce.
To improve smoothness, sift rice flour before use and whisk vigorously when combining with liquids. Cook the sauce longer to fully hydrate the starch.
The resulting sauce will be less smooth than with cake flour but still acceptable for gluten-free Shepherd's Pie variations.