Are you looking for a low-calorie, nutritious food to add to your meals? Look no further than Japanese (Daikon) Radish! One cup of cooked daikon radish with added fat contains only 58 Calories. But that's not all, this radish is also high in nutrients and has numerous Health benefits.

Daikon radish is a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine, but may not be as well-known in other parts of the world. It is a type of radish with a large, white edible root and a mild taste. One cup of cooked daikon radish (128 g) contains about 18 Calories, 0.2g of fat, 4g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional facts, Health benefits and various ways to cook and enjoy Japanese (Daikon) Radish. If you're looking to add a flavorful yet low-calorie vegetable to your diet, this versatile radish is definitely worth trying!

What is Japanese (Daikon) Radish?

Japanese (Daikon) Radish is a type of winter radish (Raphanus sativus) that is commonly used in Japanese Cooking. It has a large, white edible root and green leaves. Its taste is mild and slightly sweet, compared to other varieties of radish. Daikon radish grows well in cool climates and is typically harvested in the fall or winter. It is commonly used in salads, pickles, and stews, but can also be eaten raw or cooked as a vegetable side dish.

How Many Calories are in 1 Cup Cooked Japanese (Daikon) Radish?

One cup of cooked Japanese (Daikon) Radish (128 g) with added fat contains approximately 58 Calories. About 84% of these calories come from carbohydrates, 12% from fat, and 4% from protein. While this may seem high in fat, it's important to note that the fat is added during Cooking and can be reduced or eliminated if desired. Additionally, daikon radish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for those watching their fat intake.

Japanese (Daikon) Radish Nutrition Facts

In addition to being low in Calories, daikon radish is also rich in nutrients. One cup (128g) of cooked daikon radish contains: - Vitamin C: 20% of daily value (DV) - Dietary fiber: 12% DV, potassium: 8% DV, Vitamin B6: 7% DV, and other vitamins and minerals in smaller amounts.

Health Benefits of Japanese (Daikon) Radish

Daikon radish has numerous Health benefits due to its high nutrient content. Some of its potential health benefits include: - Boosting immunity: Vitamin C in daikon radish can help support the immune system and reduce inflammation. - Aiding digestion: Daikon radish contains dietary fiber which promotes healthy digestion and can prevent constipation.

Ways to Cook Japanese (Daikon) Radish

There are a variety of ways to cook and enjoy Japanese (Daikon) Radish. Some popular methods include: - Boiling or simmering in soups or stews. - Sautéing with garlic and other vegetables as a side dish.

Japanese (Daikon) Radish vs Regular Radish

While both Japanese (Daikon) Radish and regular radish belong to the same family and share similar nutritional value, there are some differences in taste and texture. Daikon radish tends to be milder and sweeter in taste, while regular radish has a peppery and slightly bitter taste. In addition, daikon radish is longer and larger in size than the regular radish, making it more suitable for Cooking in larger pieces rather than simply slicing for salads or garnishes.

How to Select and Store Japanese (Daikon) Radish

When selecting Japanese (Daikon) Radish, look for a smooth, unblemished skin and a firm texture. Avoid roots that are soft, wrinkled, or have brown spots, as this may indicate decay or rot. Store daikon radish in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or container for up to two weeks. Once cut or cooked, daikon radish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Japanese (Daikon) Radish Recipes

Looking for inspiration on how to cook Japanese (Daikon) Radish? Here are a few simple and delicious recipes to try: - Daikon Radish Salad: Shred daikon radish and toss with sliced cucumber, carrots, and a sesame and soy sauce dressing. - Simmered Daikon Radish: Cut daikon radish into chunks and simmer with soy sauce, mirin, and dashi until tender.

Cautions About Eating Japanese (Daikon) Radish

While daikon radish is generally safe to eat and has numerous Health benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind: - High potassium content: Those with kidney disease or other health conditions that require a low-potassium diet should avoid consuming large amounts of daikon radish. - Goitrogens: Like other members of the Brassicaceae family, daikon radish contains goitrogens which can interfere with thyroid function. However, the amounts found in daikon radish are relatively low and unlikely to affect most people unless consumed in very large quantities.

Conclusion

Japanese (Daikon) Radish is a low-calorie yet nutrient-dense vegetable that offers numerous Health benefits. With a mild taste and versatile Cooking options, it's a great addition to any meal. So next time you're looking to switch up your vegetable game, give daikon radish a try!