What should be used to dust the working surface when rolling out pastillage?

Using sifted corn starch or confectioner's sugar to dust the working surface when rolling out pastillage is ideal for a few key reasons. Both of these dusting agents prevent the pastillage from sticking to the surface during the rolling process.

Sifted corn starch is particularly effective because it helps to absorb any moisture from the pastillage, which keeps it pliable and manageable while being rolled out. This is crucial as pastillage is designed to be dry and firm, and moisture can lead to a sticky situation.

Confectioner's sugar, also known as powdered sugar, is another excellent choice. It not only provides a non-stick surface but also adds a slight sweetness that can complement the overall flavor of the pastillage without significantly altering its texture.

In summary, using either sifted corn starch or confectioner's sugar ensures that the pastillage can be easily rolled out without sticking, which is essential for working with this type of sugar paste effectively.