What is Konnyaku?

The Konjac Yam

Konnyaku (also known as the devil's tongue, voodoo lily, or elephant's foot) is an ingredient used predominantly in Japanese cuisine. Edible Konnyaku is produced from the starch of the Amorphophallus konjac, a tuber of the yam family, made by mixing the ground konnyaku corms with limestone water. The processed product has a rubbery and gelatinous texture which is easily sliced. It's enjoyed in Asian countries as an inexpensive plate filler for its volume and chewing satisfaction. The texture is not far off from tthat of squid or Nata de Coco, though when eaten on its own, Konyakku is completely bland and tasteless, therefore is best cooked in sauces or soups to absorb the flavors.

The Many Forms of Konnyaku

Konnyaku comes in clear plastic packages immersed in liquid. The product inside may either be a speckled brown/grey color when made with unrefined starch, and small amounts of hijiki (a Japanese sea vegetable), or opaque white when refined.

It's sold in several forms;

Ita konnyaku – Slabs of konnyaku which are usually sliced into thinner strips and sometimes made into twists.


Shirataki (literally translated as 'white waterfall') – Thin filaments similar to vermicelli or glass noodles. Due to their large surface area, they are better at absorbing flavors and are often used as a substitute for other types of noodles or pasta.

Tofu Shirataki – Made from a blend of tofu and Shirataki for a more pasta-like appearance texture. 

Tama konnyaku – Ball shaped konnyaku resembling gnocchi.



Sashimi Konnyaku – Thinly sliced pieces of Konnyaku usually flavoured with laver seaweed flakes or yuzu citrus. These are ready to eat straight from the packet with a miso-based dipping sauce.

Konyakku Jelly – Sweet jelly desserts made from Konnyaku powder.

Glucomannan – Konnyaku powder sold as a food supplement taken in capsule form or added to foods as a thickening agent.

Because of recent hype around the health benefits of Konnyaku in the West, it has gained much more recognition especially in the low-carb community, and is marketed under brand names such as 'Miracle Noodle', 'Zero Noodle' or 'Pasta Zero'. Konnyaku and Shirataki can also be found at Asian supermarkets or health stores, usually imported from Japan.

To the unaccustomed palate, Konnyaku may be somewhat of an acquired taste. Upon opening the packaging, the liquid that pours out has a distinctively unpleasant smell often described as fishy. Personally, the odor is what I'd imagine gone off spunk to smell like (sorry, but it's true). This, along with the strange texture, can be quite off-putting, but following the right preparation and cooking methods will expel the smell.

Benefits

Despite seeming rather unappetizing on first impression, Konnyaku is hailed as a miracle diet food:

- The main components of Konnyaku are the dietary fibre Glucomannan (3%) and Water (97%). As the human body has a difficult time digesting Glucomannan, it safely passes through the body, facilitating digestion and maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal system.
- Carb-free, Fat-free, Gluten-free and Wheat-free.
- Extremely low in calories at only 10 calories per 100 grams.
- Suitable for any diet

Glucomannan is also used medicinally for the treatment of;

- Constipation: Ingesting dietary fibre can help relieve constipation in children and adults.
- Diabetes: effective in reducing blood sugar levels, and blood pressure.
- High Cholesterol: slows the absorption of cholesterol in the gut.
- Obesity: Suppresses appetite and facilitates weight loss.

Konnyaku is also a staple of the Okinawan diet, which boasts the longest life expectancy in the world, and has the highest number of centenarian residents.

Warnings

- As Konnyaku isn't as soluble as regular food stuff, it is important to chew the Konnyaku properly to avoid throat and gastrointestinal blockages.
- Always drink plenty of water as consuming dietary fibre with insufficient hydration can lead to constipation.
- Though filling, Konnyaku is empty of nutrients and shouldn't be abused as a low calorie food. You must make sure you are feeding your body enough nutrition with a balanced diet.