Imagine a world in which you could enjoy all your favorite pasta and rice dishes, minus any guilty or too-full feelings when the meal is done. Well, it’s time to break the good news: Everyone’s fantasy is now reality.
The secret agent making it all possible? Konjac! We’re here to share all the need-to-know info, health benefits, and must-try konjac recipes–plus answer any lingering questions you have about these amazing noodles.
Konjac is a root vegetable grown throughout Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. Similar in appearance to a misshapen potato, this ingredient makes for a fantastic flavor chameleon that feels right at home in stir-fries, soups, and so much more. There’s no shortage of konjac-based products to try, from rice to chips to gluten-free flours. You can even use konjac pastas as a healthier substitute in classic Italian dishes!
And although it may seem new and trendy now, konjac has actually been around since the 6th century, originally used as an ingredient in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicines. Its range has only continued to expand; more recently, the plant has been employed to create everything from facial massage accessories to vegan substitutes for gelatin.
1. They effortlessly absorb flavors.
Perhaps one of the most versatile ingredients on the market, konjac rices and noodles fit seamlessly into any dish, taking on the taste of whatever sauce, marinade, or seasoning you choose to mix them with.
2. They’re the ultimate health food.
Low-calorie, zero-carb, fiber-packed, low-glycemic, antioxidant-rich…need we go on? The health benefits of konjac are the stuff of legend. Although not all claims are 100% backed by science (yet), we do know that these noodles are excellent for regulating digestion, lowering cholesterol, and keeping you perfectly satisfied when dinner is done.
3. They’re adaptable to all kinds of diets.
Most konjac products are naturally Keto, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Vegan, and Paleo-Friendly, so consumers with all kinds of dietary preferences or restrictions can enjoy.
In a world full of konjac products, how do you know where to begin?
Versatile and healthy as they are, konjac noodles aren’t always the most approachable. For many, they tend to fall victim to overpowering odors and rubbery or slimy mouth-feels.
But konjac-centered companies have stepped up to the plate, seeking unique formulas that cater to consumer preference. That means lower sodium, not-so-processed, plant-based pasta for all!
Allow us to introduce some of our shopping cart staples–all of which are fully cooked and ready to eat straight out of the bag! Simply drain them, saute with your favorite sauce for 1-2 minutes, serve, and enjoy.
Want to test them in your own kitchen?
Check out a few of our favorite recipes that feature this super ingredient, and add them into your rotation this week!
Fettuccine
Wide, flat fettuccine noodles practically beg to be bathed in creamy sauces. Keep it classic with an alfredo, or spice things up with a Cajun seafood dish.
Spaghetti
Bolognese, carbonara, puttanesca…oh my! Spaghetti suits so many different sauces that you could use it for a week’s worth of dinners and never get bored.
Angel Hair
Not to be mistaken with spaghetti, angel hair is a powerhouse in its own right. Best combined with simple seasonings or lean proteins, this pasta is a summer go-to.
Rice
Bake it in a skillet, toss it in a wok, or simply use it as the perfect pairing alongside a delicious main dish. This konjac rice is your dream kitchen sidekick, ready to soak up flavors in any recipe.
In conclusion, konjac noodles have come a long way in addressing the concerns of overpowering odors and undesirable textures. With companies like It's Skinny now offering lower sodium, less-processed, and plant-based pasta options, incorporating these versatile and healthy noodles into your meals has never been easier.
Our selection of fully cooked and ready-to-eat konjac products is designed to simplify your cooking experience. Just drain, sauté with your preferred sauce, and savor the goodness.
