What is Daikon?

Daikon ( raphanus sativus longipipinnatus ) is a slight white radish in the shape of a large carrot. The name comes from the Japanese words dai , which means "big" and con , which means "root". Growing to a length of 8 to 14 inches (20 to 35 cm) and a width of 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm), certainly lives in its name. The varieties can be cylindrical or even spherical. Almost all types are white, although some are shades of yellow, green, pink or black. This is known as Japanese or Chinese radishes, winter radishes, racicked radishes, Labanos , lobak and rab , among other things. It is assumed that the radish was created in the Mediterranean region before it was transplanted to East Asia sometime before 500 B.C.

In Japanese cuisine, the ubiquitous daikon is prepared and administered in different ways. It is often grated and raw, as an accompaniment to food or as a flavor in soup. Can be crushed, dried, loaded, used in sushi, cooked or with withHas. Fresh leaves and sprouts are consumed separately.

In China, Daikon is often added to various dims of summary meals, such as moli cakes. Mooli cakes that are fried or steamed are the traditional fares that serve at the Chinese New Year celebrations. In Korea it is included as part of Kimchi, Korea's national meal, a combination of acetic pickled vegetables, hot peppers, garlic and ginger.

In Myanmar, Daikon is given pickled or as a ingredient in the salad. It is also boiled and served with fish sauce or is made in soup. In India, Daikon, it is called Muli, is shredded and used as a filling for parathas , a kind of fried flat bread. It is also served raw in salads in regional cuisine Pandjabi.

This radish has a very low calorie content. The raw part of 0.5 cup (75 g) provides only about 20 calories and is an excellent source of vitamin C.It is considered beneficial in promoting digestion. The leaves are a good source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium and iron. Daikon radishes prefer to be planted deep in a rich, freely wrapped wet soil. They have a relatively long vegetation period and should be planted as soon as the soil is heated.

Daikon is available in food stores throughout the year. When purchasing, shoppers should choose those that have white, immaculate skin and feel hard and much in hand, without drying or cracks. The leaves should be fresh and green, without yellowing. The radish can be stored in a re -closable plastic bag in the refrigerator, but the leaves should be separated from the root and stored at the room temperature or used correctly because it does not cool well.

Versatile food, Daikon can be successfully prepared in a series. In addition to frying and cooking, it can be grilled, roasted and grilled. It is a delicious RAW and makes a new addition to any cold or coarse plate.It must only be washed, peeled and sliced ​​vertically into thin slices or Julienne.