Taro is a starchy root vegetable that is commonly used in many cuisines around the world. One cup of sliced taro (cooked with salt) contains approximately 187 calories. If you're curious about the nutritional value and health benefits of taro, as well as how to cook and store it properly, keep reading.
In addition to calories, taro is also a good source of fiber, vitamin E, potassium, and magnesium. It is low in fat and sodium and has a low glycemic index, making it a good choice for those who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels. Taro is also high in antioxidants, which help to protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of taro and provide you with some helpful tips and recipes to try out.
Calories in Taro
As mentioned earlier, one cup of sliced taro (cooked with salt) contains approximately 187 calories. However, the exact number of calories will depend on how the taro is prepared and cooked. If you're trying to manage your caloric intake, it's important to keep in mind that taro is often used in higher-calorie dishes, such as taro chips or taro dumplings. These dishes can quickly add up in calories, so it's important to enjoy them in moderation or opt for healthier preparation methods.
Taro Nutritional Facts
In addition to its caloric value, taro is rich in nutrients that are essential for optimal health. Here are some of the key nutritional facts about taro: - Taro is a good source of fiber, which supports digestive health and can help reduce cholesterol levels. - Taro is high in potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and maintain proper fluid balance in the body.
Taro Health Benefits
Taro has several health benefits that make it a valuable addition to any diet. Some of the most notable benefits of taro include: - Taro is high in antioxidants, which help to protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. - Taro is low in fat and sodium and has a low glycemic index, making it a good choice for those who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels or their weight.
How to Cook Taro
Taro can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preferences and the dish you're making. Here are some popular methods for cooking taro: - Boiling: This is a simple and easy method for cooking taro. Simply peel and chop the taro into bite-sized pieces and boil in salted water for 20-30 minutes, or until tender. - Frying: Taro can be deep-fried or pan-fried to make crispy taro chips or fritters. Just make sure not to overcook them or they can become tough and chewy.
Taro Cooking Tips
If you're new to cooking taro, here are some tips to help you get started: - Always peel the taro before cooking, as the skin is tough and fibrous. - Make sure to cook the taro thoroughly, as it can be toxic if eaten raw.
Taro Recipes
There are countless recipes that feature taro as a main ingredient. Here are a few delicious and healthy recipes to try out: - Taro and Coconut Milk Soup: This warm and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day. It features taro root, coconut milk, chicken broth, and spices for a flavorful and filling meal. - Steamed Taro Cake: This traditional Chinese dish is a popular dim sum item. It's made with grated taro, rice flour, and pork, and steamed until tender and fragrant.
Taro in Traditional Cuisine
Taro is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, including Hawaiian, Filipino, and Polynesian cuisine. Here are some traditional dishes that feature taro: - Poi: This is a traditional Hawaiian dish made from mashed taro root. It has a slightly sour taste and is often served as a side dish. - Kalo Chips: In the Philippines, taro is often cut into thin slices and fried to make a crunchy snack known as kalo chips.
Taro Varieties
While there are many varieties of taro, some of the most common include: - Dasheen: This variety has a reddish-brown skin and creamy white flesh. It's often used in Caribbean and African cuisine. - Japanese Taro: This variety has a light purple skin and is often used in Japanese cuisine for making dishes such as taro mochi.
Taro Storage Tips
To store taro properly, follow these tips: - Store taro in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cellar. - Keep taro away from other vegetables and fruits, as it can cause them to spoil more quickly.
Where to Buy Taro
Taro can often be found in the produce section of most supermarkets and Asian markets. Look for taro that is firm and heavy, with no soft spots or signs of mold. If fresh taro is not available, you can also find frozen or canned taro.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Taro Slices
1. What is taro?
Taro is a starchy root vegetable that is commonly used in Asian and Polynesian cuisine. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and is a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.
2. How do you cook taro?
To cook taro, peel the skin off with a vegetable peeler or knife and slice it into rounds or wedges. Boil the taro in salted water until it is tender, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes. Drain the water and serve the taro slices as a side dish or in a recipe.
3. What are the health benefits of taro?
Taro is a nutritious vegetable that is low in fat and calories and high in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. It may help improve digestion, lower blood pressure, and boost immune function.
4. Is taro safe to eat?
Yes, taro is safe to eat when it is cooked properly. However, if you eat taro raw, it can be toxic and cause severe throat and mouth irritation. Always cook taro before consuming it.
5. How many calories are in cooked taro slices?
One cup of sliced taro that is cooked with salt contains approximately 187 calories. Taro is a relatively high-calorie vegetable, so it should be consumed in moderation if you are watching your calorie intake.