| Courtesy of google images |
Konjac is a word that has been thrown around quite a bit lately. You might have heard a bit about it, and If you’re a bit of a health fanatic like me, you’ve probably done some of your own research. For those of you who haven’t heard, I thought I’d give you a bit of information about it because, let’s face it, anything that promotes Weight Loss is usually top of mind for those of us who are active in the ‘beauty’ community.
What is it?
Konjac, also known as ‘devil’s tongue’ or ‘voodoo lily’, is a plant with an edible root that has been used in Asia for medicine since the sixth century. About 1500 years ago people began eating it.
Recently, its popularity has been growing in Western cultures, primarily due to its nutritional properties and effectiveness in assisting weight loss. Konjac is seen most commonly here in Australia in the form of noodles, rice, spaghetti and fettuccini, however unlike regular wheat-based pasta, Konjac has no fat, no protein, no gluten, less than 1 gram of carbohydrates and only 8 calories per serve, yet it’s extremely high in fibre.
And the taste?
Without sauce, the stuff doesn’t taste great, but covered by a healthy stir-fry or lean Bolognese, it’s actually pretty good. The texture is similar to Asian rice noodles. It’s satisfying to eat (in that it feels like you’re eating carbs) and keeps you full for about 4 hours. All of that and nothing but fibre!
In Australia, it’s most commonly sold under the name ‘Slendier Slim’ – you can buy it from the health food shop in most big supermarkets. It’s not cheap, 200 grams is almost $4, but it hasn’t stopped me – I’m obsessed with the stuff!
My boyfriend likens it to ‘paying for and eating’ air, which he considers to be pointless & a waste of money, but let’s be honest; when do guys ever understand our food obsessions?
Pasta is definitely better, and don’t get me wrong – I still eat it! However, now I like to save it for special dinners and nights out. Konjac through the week is a good enough sacrifice for me!
