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Devil tongue plant

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People seem to enjoy naming foods after the devil. There’s devil’s food cake, deviled eggs, devilled ham, pasta fra diavolo (Italian for “brother devil”) … But would you eat something called devil’s tongue?

What Is Devil’s Tongue?

This demonic moniker (“demoniker?”) can actually refer to either of two rarely eaten vegetables: Dominican red savina peppers, which, as their nickname implies, are hot as, erm, heck, and konjac, a plant native to Southeast Asia, including countries like China, Japan, and Indonesia.

Key features of the Devil's Tongue plant include:

1. Unusual Appearance: The most distinctive feature of this plant is its large, umbrella-like, palmate leaves that can be up to three feet in diameter. The leaves have a textured, wrinkled appearance and are typically divided into several lobes, giving them an almost alien or prehistoric look.

2. Unique Flowers: The plant produces a single, large, and peculiar flower that emerges from the center of the leaf stalk. The flower resembles a dark purple or maroon-colored “tongue,” which is where the common name “Devil’s Tongue” originates.

3. Edible Tuber: The underground part of the Devil’s Tongue plant is a starchy tuber, which is edible and is often used in Asian cuisine. This tuber, sometimes called konjac or konnyaku, is used to make a variety of food products like jelly, tofu, yam cake, and noodles. However, it is usually prepared with great care to remove its natural toxins.

4. Low Maintenance: Devil’s Tongue plants are relatively low-maintenance, making them popular as ornamental houseplants. They prefer well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. The plant goes dormant during the winter months.

In addition to the name 'Devil's tongue, konjac also goes by several other common names, including:

1. Amorphophallus konjac: This is the scientific name for konjac, commonly referring to the entire konjac plant.

2. Konjac: This is the English name for konjac, also a transliteration of its scientific name Amorphophallus konjac.

3. Australian Arrowroot: Konjac is also known as Australian Arrowroot in Australia, and its corms can be used to produce arrowroot powder.

4. Juruo: This is a colloquial name for konjac in some regions of China, often found in the names of local dishes.

5. Konjac corm: Due to the tuber’s resemblance to potatoes, konjac is sometimes called konjac potato.

6. Elephant Yam: Sometimes referred to as “Elephant Yam” due to the appearance of the konjac plant.

7. Konjac Fruit: The fruit of the konjac plant, usually not consumed, as the corm is the main edible part of the konjac plant.

8. Konjac Jelly: A jelly-like food made from konjac, commonly used in low-sugar or weight-loss diets.

9. Konjac Flour: Powder made from dried and ground konjac corms, used in food processing, such as making noodles and pastries.

10. Konjac Snacks: Some companies produce various snacks made primarily from konjac, such as chips and stick snacks, positioned as healthier alternatives.

11. Konnyaku: Konnyaku is a traditional Japanese food made from konjac corms, known for its elasticity and chewiness, often used in various dishes like hot pots, stews, and fried foods.

12. Konjac Noodles: Thread-like food made from konjac, typically used to create low-calorie, low-carbohydrate noodle alternatives.

13. Konjac Tofu: A tofu substitute made mainly from konjac, used in vegetarian and low calorie diets.

14. Shirataki: Shirataki is a translucent noodle made from konjac corms, commonly used in various Asian dishes and health-conscious diets due to its low calorie and low carbohydrate content.

15. Konjac Rice: This is a rice alternative made from konjac corms, suitable for those pursuing a low carbohydrate diet.

In Asia, the corm, yam, or root of the konjac plant is a common ingredient in many dishes. It looks like a potato and is traditionally ground into a flour used to create a type of noodles popularly known as konjac noodles (also referred to as shirataki noodles, zero noodles, and miracle noodles). These noodles have a mild flavor of their own but readily absorb the flavors of any sauces or seasonings they are cooked with, making them a favorite choice for those seeking low carb options.

Benefits of shirataki noodles

1. Low in Calories: Konjac noodles are extremely low in calories, making them an excellent choice for individuals who are looking to reduce their calorie intake. A typical serving of konjac noodles contains only about 5-10 calories, which is significantly lower than traditional pasta.

2. SugarFree: Konjac noodles do not contain any added sugars. This is especially important for those who are monitoring their sugar intake, such as individuals with diabetes or those trying to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

3. Gluten Free: Konjak nudeln is naturally gluten-free. This makes them a safe and delicious option for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, as well as those who follow a gluten-free diet by choice.

4. High in Fiber: One of the key benefits of miracle noodles is their high fiber content. They are primarily made from the konjac yam root, which is rich in glucomannan fiber. This soluble fiber is known for its ability to promote a feeling of fullness and can aid in weight management by reducing overall calorie consumption.

5. Filling and Satiating: Due to their high fiber content, konnyaku noodles can help you feel full and satisfied after eating, reducing the chances of overeating or snacking between meals. This satiety factor can be especially beneficial for those looking to control their appetite and manage their weight.

6. Low Carbohydrates: Konjac noodles are very low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb and keto diets. Their minimal impact on blood sugar levels is advantageous for individuals who need to regulate their carb intake.

7. Versatile: Shirataki noodles can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stir fries to salads and pasta dishes. They absorb the flavors of the ingredients they are cooked with, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of recipes.

8. Easy to Prepare: Yam noodles are pre cooked and packaged in water, so they are quick and easy to prepare. You can simply drain and rinse them, then add them to your favorite recipes.

9. Suitable for Various Dietary Preferences: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, keto, weight loss, or following a specific dietary plan, konjac noodles can be incorporated into your meals without any issues.

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