Arrowroot: what it is, ways to use it and 5 easy recipes to enjoy

the arrowroot (Maranta arundinaceae L.) is a plant native to South America consumed mainly in the form of flour in various culinary dishes. To learn more about it, clinical and functional nutritionist Andréa Marim (CRN 15233), explained what it is for, what types and ways to use it. In addition, you can check out delicious recipes to enjoy its benefits. Follow the article!

What is arrowroot and what types

According to the nutritionist, arrowroot is a root usually consumed in the form of flour. “The food does not contain gluten is a great option to replace traditional wheat flour. Therefore, the flour extracted from the plant is also an excellent alternative for those who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease”. There are two types of root most cultivated in Brazil, they are:

• Common: this type of root is the one that produces the best quality starch and, according to the nutritionist, the common arrowroot “is predominant and the most sold in the country”.
• Creoula: Andréa informed that “like the common arrowroot, the creoula is easily found in Brazil. The plant originates from the Antilles and produces rhizomes on the surface of the soil that are washed several times so that the starches do not turn dark and of poor quality.”

Arrowroot flour is nutritious and easy to digest, being an indispensable and very versatile ingredient to have in your kitchen and to vary your diet.

What is arrowroot used for and how to use it

The nutritionist explained that arrowroot flour is rich in iron, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, in addition to containing high fiber content. “The root is rich in fibers that help regulate the intestines, that is, it is an excellent ally in the fight against constipation and diarrhea”. Furthermore, the plant has three main uses. See what they are below:

Beauty

According to Andréa, the starch extracted from the root can be used for aesthetic purposes, as it is extremely fine and the smell is almost imperceptible. “Currently it has been used as a dry shampoo and translucent powder for makeup by people who prefer vegan or chemical-free products.”

cooking

The nutritionist reported that arrowroot flour is used in recipes for cakes, cookies, breads, sweets and to thicken broths, soups and sauces. “Because it does not contain gluten, it is an excellent option to replace conventional flour and flour in various culinary dishes”.

Hygiene

The starch extracted from the plant has a velvety texture and has the power to retain moisture. For this reason, Andreia said that “the root of the plant can be used as baby powder, as it does not cause skin problems such as allergies or itching”.

The most traditional way to obtain the benefits of the plant is through flour, but arrowroot can also be consumed in vegetable form. In this way, it can be cooked in the same way as yams, sweet potatoes and cassava.

Arrowroot X Sweet Sprinkle

The nutritionist explained that the flour extracted from the plant contains less starch than the sweet starch and the difference is also in the caloric values. “In 50g of arrowroot flour has 179 calories, the same amount of sweet flour has 355 calories”.

Arrowroot and Corn Starch

Like cornstarch, arrowroot can also be used in cooking to thicken broths, sauces and in the preparation of porridges. “The arrowroot gives a nice shine to the preparation and can be used to replace the cornstarch, but it needs to be cooked longer”, said Andréa.

5 arrowroot recipes to enjoy its benefits

Now that you know everything about this wonderful plant, check out 5 easy, delicious recipes that your whole family will love:

1. Arrowroot cookies

Who doesn’t like to eat cookies for breakfast or while watching their favorite TV show, right? In this video you will learn how to make delicious cookies with arrowroot flour. Watch and see how simple it is to make!

2. Arrowroot cookie with coconut and chocolate

Crackers are one of children’s favorite foods, but they are usually made with traditional wheat flour, which does not offer many nutrients and fiber to the body. However, in this recipe, you will learn how to make it with arrowroot flour – an ingredient rich in iron, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and high in fiber. In addition, you can add grated coconut and a chocolate coating to give that special touch to the recipe. Watch the video!

3. Arrowroot donuts

In this video, you will learn how to make arrowroot donuts that will give you water. The recipe is very simple, takes few ingredients and takes very little time to make. Follow the step by step and enjoy!

4. Arrowroot cake

The cake is one of the most traditional recipes in the world and Brazilians love it. This video shows the step by step how to make arrowroot cake. The recipe is easy to make, has a good yield and takes around 30 minutes to prepare. Learn how to do it by watching the video!

5. Vegan petit gateau with arrowroot

Petit gateau is a typical French recipe and in the mid-1990s it became popular with Brazilians. How about learning how to make this delicious recipe in a vegan version? Watch the video and follow the step by step!

Arrowroot is really versatile, isn’t it? Enjoy and learn about the benefits of green banana flour, another healthy option to replace traditional flours!

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.