If you're looking for a low calorie vegetable to add to your meals, consider 1 lb of drained, cooked, boiled cardoon which contains only 100 calories. Cardoon is a relative of the artichoke and has a similar taste but with a slightly bitter edge. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional value and health benefits of this unusual vegetable, as well as how to cook and serve it.
While low in calories, 1 lb of cardoon contains plenty of vitamins and nutrients. A serving provides a good source of fiber, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C. It also contains antioxidants which can help to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or an adventurous novice, cardoon can add an interesting twist to your meals. Read on to discover some tasty recipes and serving suggestions for this versatile vegetable.
Calories in 1 Lb Cardoon
As mentioned in the introduction, 1 lb of drained, cooked, boiled cardoon contains only 100 calories. This makes it a great addition to any low calorie meal or for those looking to manage their weight.
Cardoon Nutritional Facts
In addition to being low in calories, cardoon also contains a number of vitamins and minerals essential for good health. It is an excellent source of fiber, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C. It also contains smaller amounts of other nutrients, such as iron, magnesium, and Vitamin B6.
Health Benefits of Cardoon
Cardoon is full of antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic disease. The high fiber content in cardoon can help to improve digestive health and lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, the Vitamin K in cardoon is essential for bone health.
Cardoon Recipes
Cardoon can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to gratins and salads. Try it in this Tuscan Minestrone soup or this Cardoon Gratin. For a delicious side dish, simply sauté cardoon in olive oil with garlic and lemon juice.
Cardoon vs Artichoke
Cardoon and artichoke are both members of the thistle family and have a similar taste. However, cardoon has a more intense and slightly bitter flavor. In terms of nutrition, cardoon is lower in calories and higher in fiber than artichoke, making it a great choice for those watching their weight or looking to improve their digestion.
How to Cook Cardoon
Before cooking cardoon, it needs to be cleaned and trimmed of any tough outer stalks. Once cleaned, cardoon can be boiled, steamed, or roasted just like artichoke. It's important to note that cardoon contains a substance called cynarine which can cause the tongue to feel numb. To avoid this, many chefs recommend blanching cardoon in lemon water prior to cooking.
Cardoon Season
Cardoon is a winter vegetable and is typically harvested from October to April in the United States. Look for fresh, firm cardoon stalks with no blemishes or soft spots.
Where to Buy Cardoon
Fresh cardoon can be found at specialty markets and some farmers markets. It can also be ordered online from specialty gourmet food retailers.
Cardoon Storage
Fresh cardoon should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a few days of purchase. To keep it fresh, wrap it in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag.
Cardoon Serving Suggestions
Cardoon can be served on its own or as a side dish. Try it simply steamed with lemon and olive oil, or add it to a salad for extra crunch. For a more indulgent treat, try frying battered cardoon for a tasty snack.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Cardoon
1. What is cooked cardoon?
Cooked cardoon is a vegetable that belongs to the same family as artichokes. It has a distinctively earthy and nutty flavor, and a tender texture once cooked.
2. How is cooked cardoon prepared?
First, trim off the prickly edges and remove the tough, fibrous strings that run along the cardoon stalks. Then, cut the cardoon stalks into pieces and boil them in salted water until tender. Drain the cardoon and serve it as a side dish, or use it as an ingredient in a variety of recipes, such as stews or gratins.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of cooked cardoon?
Cooked cardoon is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that help protect the body from free radical damage.
4. Is cooked cardoon safe for everyone to eat?
While cooked cardoon is generally safe for most people to eat, those with an allergy to artichokes, dandelions, or other members of the Asteraceae family may experience an allergic reaction. Additionally, it should be avoided by pregnant women, as it may have uterine-stimulant effects.
5. Where can I purchase cooked cardoon?
Cooked cardoon can be found in specialty grocery stores, gourmet food shops, and farmers' markets. It may also be available online from various retailers.