Japanese Food Tips

Konnyaku (Konjak)

February 25, 2020

Blackish konnyaku block

Blackish konnyaku block

Whitish blackish string

Whitish blackish string

Sashimi konnyaku

Sashimi konnyaku

Konnyaku (konjak or devil’s tongue) made from konjak yam is a Japanese traditional foodstuff which has been eaten in Japan since the 8th century. The colors are mainly blackish and whitish, and two shapes - block and string - are usually sold. Konnyaku is famous as a health food and diet food because it is rich in dietary fiber and has very low calories about 7 kcal per 100 g (3 1/2 oz). Konnyaku is usually eaten after boiling to remove the scum, and it is often used in one-pot and simmered dishes. However, sashimi konnyaku (usually green or white) can be eaten with vinegared miso sauce without boiling before hand. Konnyaku has a unique jiggly and elastic and chewy texture. If you see it in the market, why not try it?

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