Home/Vegetables/Mashed Water Chestnut
Back to Home
Mashed Water Chestnut
Vegetables
Nutri-ScoreA

Mashed Water Chestnut

Trapa bicornis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Mashed water chestnut is a starchy tuber known for its crunchy texture and mild flavor, often used in Asian cuisine. It is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of dietary fiber.

Also known as:
Singhara (India)Water Caltrop (USA)
Scientific NameTrapa bicornis
Region of OriginChina

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories97 kcal
Water
85%
Fiber4.9g
Total26.7g
Protein
2.4g(9%)
Fats
0.4g(1%)
Carbohydrates
23.9g(90%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C5 mg (6%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.4 mg (3%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.1 mg (2%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate18 mcg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin B12: 0 mcgCholine: 7 mgVitamin A: 0 IUVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0.1 mgVitamin K: 0 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium23 mg (6%)
Phosphorus34 mg (5%)
Potassium400 mg (11%)
Zinc0.2 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.2 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by boiling or steaming, then mashing to retain nutrients and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, unblemished water chestnuts with a smooth skin. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots.

How to Store

Store fresh water chestnuts in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Digestive aidAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Used in traditional medicine for digestive health
Incorporated in various culinary dishes for texture
Bioactive Compounds
Flavonoids

Known for their antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress.

How to Consume
Fresh, Cooked, Mashed
Did you know?

"Water chestnuts are not actually nuts but tubers that grow underwater."

Myths vs Realities

MythWater chestnuts are nuts.
RealityWater chestnuts are tubers, not nuts.
MythCanned water chestnuts are unhealthy.
RealityCanned water chestnuts can be healthy, but check for added sodium.
MythYou can't eat water chestnuts raw.
RealityWater chestnuts can be eaten raw and are often enjoyed in salads.

Healthy Recipes

Mashed Water Chestnut and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, featuring creamy mashed water chestnuts for added crunch and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix in the mashed water chestnuts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the mixture on the toasted bread and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Spicy Mashed Water Chestnut Lettuce Wraps

Fresh and zesty lettuce wraps filled with spicy mashed water chestnuts, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 head of butter lettuce
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the mashed water chestnuts with sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
  2. 2. Separate the lettuce leaves and spoon the mixture into each leaf.
  3. 3. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Mashed Water Chestnut Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad with mashed water chestnuts, packed with protein and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mashed water chestnuts, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine before serving.

Mashed Water Chestnut and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring mashed water chestnuts and spinach, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, then mix in mashed water chestnuts, sautéed spinach, feta, salt, and pepper. Pour into the skillet and cook until edges are set, then transfer to the oven to bake until fully cooked.

Mashed Water Chestnut and Sweet Potato Cakes

Deliciously crispy cakes made with mashed water chestnuts and sweet potatoes, perfect as a side dish or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine mashed water chestnuts, mashed sweet potatoes, almond flour, egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the patties until golden brown on both sides.

Mashed Water Chestnut and Chickpea Hummus

A unique and healthy hummus made with mashed water chestnuts and chickpeas, perfect for dipping or spreading.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt to taste
  • Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine mashed water chestnuts, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
  2. 2. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil before serving with veggies or pita chips.

Mashed Water Chestnut Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring mashed water chestnuts, packed with vegetables and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry until tender.
  2. 2. Add the mashed water chestnuts and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
  3. 3. Serve over cooked brown rice.

Mashed Water Chestnut and Zucchini Fritters

Crispy and flavorful fritters made with mashed water chestnuts and zucchini, perfect for a healthy snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 cup grated zucchini
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed water chestnuts, grated zucchini, flour, egg, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan, frying until golden brown on both sides.

Mashed Water Chestnut and Cauliflower Soup

A creamy and comforting soup made with mashed water chestnuts and cauliflower, perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add chopped cauliflower and vegetable broth, bringing to a boil. Simmer until cauliflower is tender.
  3. 3. Blend the soup until smooth, then stir in mashed water chestnuts, salt, and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Mashed Water Chestnut and Apple Salad

A refreshing salad combining mashed water chestnuts and crisp apples, drizzled with a light dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed water chestnuts
  • 1 apple, diced
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced apple, and walnuts.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Add the dressing to the salad and toss gently, then top with mashed water chestnuts before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are water chestnuts healthy?

Yes, they are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

How do you prepare water chestnuts?

They can be boiled, steamed, or sliced and added to stir-fries.

Can you eat water chestnuts raw?

Yes, they can be eaten raw and are often used in salads.

What do water chestnuts taste like?

They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture.

Are canned water chestnuts as nutritious as fresh?

Canned water chestnuts retain most of their nutrients but may contain added sodium.

How long do water chestnuts last?

Fresh water chestnuts can last up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can water chestnuts help with weight loss?

Their high fiber content can help you feel full, aiding in weight management.

Are there any allergens associated with water chestnuts?

Water chestnuts are generally safe but may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.