Arrowroot Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses

Arrowroot starch has been cultivated for thousands of years from the arrowroot plant. The pure starch is a light, white powder, and makes an excellent thickening agent and substitute for cornstarch. Let's talk about the many uses of arrowroot powder and how you can benefit from this therapeutic supplement.

Arrowroot powder is easily digestible compared to regular wheat flour and other commonly used flour. It is often incorporated into baked goods, baby food, and meals for the sick and elderly. The starch may also be found in baby powders, makeup, and various products worldwide.

Arrowroot is an excellent thickener and is fully flavorless. It will not taste starchy in recipes and, therefore, makes a great thickener for various dishes. The powder works well at low temperatures, unlike cornstarch, and blends well with acidic ingredients. Sauces that use cornstarch as a thickener often become spongy in texture if refrigerated, but sauces made with arrowroot powder can be frozen.

Arrowroot is used as a thickener in baking. It is first mixed in cold water before being added to hot mixtures to avoid the formation of lumps. It does not contain gluten, so individuals suffering from gluten intolerance can use the powder for baking and similar purposes. It is a great substitute for wheat powder in gluten-free baking and cooking.

Arrowroot is increasingly being used in:

• Sauces
• Creams
• Stews
• Soups
• Gravies
• Fruit Fillings
• Puddings
• Dishes
• Pie Fillings

Only a small amount of the powder needs to be used compared to cornstarch and other flour. Arrowroot is colorless (unlike corn flour that gives off a milky color when mixed with water).

The Benefits of a Low-Calorie Food

Arrowroot powder is fat-free and is a low-calorie food. It can be used in sauces and soups without the worry of increased fat content or calories.

I would like to share a simple and delicious arrowroot porridge recipe with you.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons arrowroot powder
• 1 Nendran banana (or 1 cup red grapes)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 5 cashew nuts
• 2 teaspoons ghee

Preparation:

1. Cut the banana or grapes into round pieces and cook in coconut milk. Make a smooth paste of the milk (dairy) and arrowroot powder.
2. Add the paste to the cooked banana (or grapes) and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Fry cashew nuts in ghee and add them to the mixture.
4. Add the sugar and mix well. The porridge is ready.