It is the starch of the corn. Also written maicna or Maizina, which are brands that came into common usage. Cornstarch is used as an ingredient for making bread, pasta, biscuits, pizza bases, etc. and as a thickener for soups, hot chocolate or ice cream. It is generally used as thickeners creams or purees. Also to give greater consistency to sauces. In other recipes, you can use the starch for coating and then fry for a more crisp result.