Taste of Taro
Turns out, my brother is a potato.
Not the average couch potato, but an actual tuberous root that closely resembles the sweet potato… and, it’s PURPLE.
In Hawaii, legend has it that the human race was born when the spirit of the sky, Wakea, and the Earth mother, Ho`ohokukalan, had a son named Haloa. But there was another before Haloa. Wakea and Ho`ohokukalan had a first child that ended up being a stillborn. Burying the child in memory, a large taro plant grew in its place. Thus, throughout spiritual culture, the taro plant is considered an ancestral relative to the Hawaiian people.
You might’ve met taro in passing as a boba shop flavor or mixed into lavender colored pastries. Let me officially introduce you to one of the first on the Hawaiian family tree:
Get to know Taro
The purple potato is actually the root to the entire taro plant. Many consume the plant’s large leaves along with the root itself. In its pure, raw form, the taro plant is actually poisonous due to its natural calcium oxalate properties. Don’t be turned off my taro’s initial impression, though! After cooking and boiling, feel free to approach the Hawaiian ancestor and enjoy the mellow character it has to offer.
Taro originates from tropical climates. It is a huge food staple in Southeast Asia all the way to the Pacific Islands. Many cultures prefer taro over other potato alternatives because it’s soft, nutty, tinge of vanilla flavor diversifies any recipe! The purple root can be found as a curry, pounded into mashed potatoes, transformed into ice cream, and even liquefied into a beautiful boba drink.
The healthy brother
Along with its versatility, taro is much healthier compared white potatoes, and even sweet potatoes. Have you ever tried zucchini pasta, kale chips, or sparkling water as healthier substitutes? Try adding taro as an alternative to potatoes to be more health conscious as well!
Taro’s tuberous nature makes it still starchy and relatively subtle in its flavor. Compared to other potatoes, however, taro has three times more fiber and plenty of other vitamins as well. To keep your skin happy and healthy, taro encompasses a luxurious source of vitamin A and E for that natural glow. Boost your immune system, too! Taro’s abundance of vitamin C helps ward off bad bacteria by supporting the immune system on plenty of fuel.
Ever go for a boba run when stressed out? Reduce the midterms and work stress by grabbing a cup of taro infused tea; its potassium contents promote controlled heartbeats and blood pressure levels.
Interested? Here’s a How-To Guide
There are always tips and tricks to picking out the best produce. Just like how the yellow spots of the watermelon signal its ripening sweetness, taro has a few indicators so you can pick the best of the patch. The most delicious taro roots should be firm all around; make sure to feel your root for any soft spots! And, no cracks! Dark spots are different than wrinkles. The tuber can have some discoloration in its brown skin, but be careful of wrinkling skin. Speaking of colors, spot any taro with a light pink or green stem: those are the freshest ones!
Not ready to indulge in your healthy potatoes yet? No worries! Store in a cool and dark spot for several days until you decide on whether you want taro chips, pasta, or even pancakes.
There’s no direct how-to guide on how to utilize your taro, simply because the options are absolutely endless! Sweet to savory, take your pick. The only piece of advice is to always wear disposable gloves when cutting a raw taro plant because of its dangerous, toxic properties when uncooked. Other than being careful when cutting, enjoy the vanilla root any way you’d like!
Taro is like the perfect older sibling: it keeps you in check and always provides delicious treats. Check out the beautifully lavender root when you get a chance!
