Oriental Radish: A Crunchy, Refreshing Root Vegetable
Oriental radish, also known as daikon, is a long, white radish with a slightly pungent flavor. It is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, and is often used in salads, stir-fries, and soups. Oriental radish is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, and is low in calories.
Health Benefits of Oriental Radish
Oriental radish is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Potassium: Potassium is a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.
- Fiber: Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that cannot be digested by the body. Fiber helps keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating, and can help lower cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control.
In addition to its vitamin and mineral content, oriental radish also contains a number of compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including:
- Reducing the risk of cancer: Antioxidants help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to cancer. Studies have shown that oriental radish extract may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Reducing inflammation: Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to a number of diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. The anti-inflammatory compounds in oriental radish may help reduce inflammation and protect against these diseases.
How to Cook Oriental Radish
Oriental radish can be cooked in a variety of ways, including:
- Raw: Oriental radish can be eaten raw in salads, slaws, and sandwiches. It has a slightly pungent flavor that can be tempered by adding a dressing or marinade.
- Cooked: Oriental radish can be cooked in stir-fries, soups, and stews. It can also be roasted or grilled.
Recipes
Here are a few recipes that feature oriental radish:
- Oriental Radish Salad: This salad is made with shredded oriental radish, carrots, and green onions. It is dressed with a simple vinaigrette made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Spicy Oriental Radish Soup: This soup is made with oriental radish, carrots, onions, and garlic. It is seasoned with ginger, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce.
- Roasted Oriental Radish: This recipe shows you how to roast oriental radish. Roasted oriental radish is a great side dish for grilled or roasted meats.
How many calories are in Oriental Radish?
Each 1 radish of Oriental Radish contains 61 calories.
Oriental Radish Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 radish (357g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 61 Calories |
| Protein | 2.4g |
| Fat | 0.9g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.7g |
| Sugar | 6.5g |
| Sodium | 0.046mg |
| Potassium | 1.0175mg |
| Calcium | 0.061mg |
| Iron | 0.0005mg |