Taro is a starchy root vegetable with a mildly sweet, nutty flavor, valued for its fiber and B vitamin content. It becomes soft and creamy when cooked and is used in a variety of savory and sweet dishes. As with other root vegetables, taro must be cooked thoroughly before eating.
Why it's good in pregnancy
Taro's fiber content supports healthy digestion, which can help ease pregnancy-related constipation. Its B vitamins contribute to energy metabolism and support your baby's developing nervous system. As a starchy vegetable, taro can also provide steady energy to help meet pregnancy's increased caloric needs.
Key nutrients
FiberSupports digestive health and helps ease pregnancy-related constipation.
B VitaminsSupport energy metabolism and your baby's developing nervous system.
Serving ideas
Boiled taro mashed as a side dish
Taro added to soups and stews
Baked taro chips
Steamed taro cubes tossed with a little oil and herbs
Taro incorporated into cooked porridge
Safety
Wash thoroughly before use.
Peel taro thoroughly and wash it well before cooking, wearing gloves if you find raw taro irritates your skin. Taro must always be cooked thoroughly — boiled, steamed, or baked until fully tender — and should never be eaten raw. Store raw, unpeeled taro in a cool, dry place and use within a couple of weeks, while cooked taro should be refrigerated and eaten within a few days. Reheat leftovers until steaming hot before serving.
Common questions
Is taro safe to eat during pregnancy?Yes, as long as it's peeled and cooked thoroughly, since raw taro should always be avoided.
Why can't taro be eaten raw?Raw taro contains compounds that can irritate the mouth and throat, which thorough cooking neutralizes.
Can taro help with pregnancy fatigue?Its B vitamins and steady carbohydrate energy can contribute to overall energy levels as part of a balanced diet.
Did you know?
Taro is one of the oldest cultivated plants, with a history of use spanning thousands of years across many cultures.
Purple-tinged taro varieties are popular in desserts and beverages in several Asian cuisines.
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