An edible composition comprising starch and cellulose ether particles, wherein the cellulose ether particles have a volume fraction of fibrous particles of no more than 40 %, is useful for preparing a batter by mixing the edible composition with water. The batter is contacted with a food to prepare a battered food. The battered foods have a reduced oil and/or fat uptake when fried, as compared to fried non-battered food.