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Arrowroot is a root normally consumed in the form of flour which, as it does not contain it, is an excellent substitute for wheat flour for making cakes, pies, cookies, porridge and even for thickening soups and sauces, especially in the case of gluten sensitivity or even illness celiac.
Another advantage in the consumption of arrowroot flour is that, in addition to having minerals such as iron, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium, it is also rich in fibers and does not contain gluten, which makes it an easily digestible flour and because it is very versatile it is a good ingredient to have in the kitchen.
In addition, arrowroot has also been used in the field of cosmetics and personal hygiene, as an option for those who prefer to use vegan creams or without chemicals.
What is it for and benefits
Arrowroot is rich in fibers that help the intestine to regulate and so it can help treat diarrhea, for example, in which case a arrowroot porridge with a vegetable oat drink can be a good natural remedy for diarrhea.
In addition, arrowroot flour is easy to consume and therefore it is a great way to vary the diet, in the making of breads, cakes and even in the making of pancakes because it substitutes wheat flour, for example. Check out 10 other substitutes for wheat.
How to use
Arrowroot is a versatile plant with many applications, such as:
- Aesthetics: Arrowroot powder, being extremely fine and with an almost imperceptible smell, has now been used as a dry shampoo and translucent powder for makeup, by people who prefer vegan or chemical-free options;
- Cooking: because it does not contain gluten, it is used instead of conventional flour and flour, in recipes for cakes, cookies, breads and to thicken broths, sauces and sweets;
- Hygiene: its powder because it has a velvety texture and retain moisture can be used as baby powder.
The use of arrowroot for aesthetics and hygiene does not present damage to the skin or scalp, such as allergies or itching.
Nutritional information table
The following table shows the nutritional information of arrowroot in the form of flour and starch:
Components | Quantity per 100 g |
Protein | 0.3 g |
Lipids (fat) | 0.1 g |
Fibers | 3.4 g |
Calcium | 40 mg |
Iron | 0.33 mg |
Magnesium | 3 mg |
Arrowroot in the form of vegetables, can be cooked, as is done with other roots such as cassava, yams or sweet potatoes.
Recipes with arrowroot
Below we present 3 options of arrowroot recipes that provide a feeling of satiety, are light, rich in fibers and easy to digest.
1. Arrowroot crepe
This arrowroot crepe is a great option for breakfast and an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs;
- 3 spoons of arrowroot powder;
- salt and oregano to taste.
Way of doing:
In a bowl, mix the eggs and arrowroot powder. Then cook in a skillet, preheated and non-stick for 2 minutes on both sides. It is not necessary to add any type of oil.
2. Bechamel sauce
Bechamel sauce, also called white sauce, is used for lasagna, pasta sauce and in oven-baked dishes. Combines with any type of meat or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 glass of milk (250 mL);
- 1/2 glass of water (125 mL);
- 1 tablespoon full of butter;
- 2 tablespoons of arrowroot (flour, little people or starch);
- salt, black pepper and nutmeg to taste.
Way of doing:
Melt the butter in an iron pan over low heat, gradually add the arrowroot, let it brown. Then, add the milk little by little and mix until it thickens, just after adding the water, cook for 5 minutes over medium heat. Add the seasonings to taste.
3. Arrowroot porridge
This porridge can be used for the food introduction of children from 6 months of life, as it is easy to digest.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of sugar;
- 2 spoons of arrowroot starch;
- 1 cup of milk (what the child already consumes);
- fruits to taste.
Preparation mode:
Dilute sugar and arrowroot starch in milk, without taking the pan and cook over medium heat for 7 minutes. After warming, add fruit to taste.
This arrowroot porridge can also be consumed by people who suffer from nervous diarrhea, the consumption is indicated for about 4 hours before that activity that can cause nervousness that triggers the diarrhea crisis.
Arrowroot flour can also be found on the market under names like "maranta" or "arrowroot".