Arrowroot
Roots
Nutri-ScoreA

Arrowroot

Maranta arundinacea

Clinical Encyclopedia

Arrowroot is a starchy root vegetable known for its digestibility and gluten-free properties. It is often used as a thickening agent in cooking and is rich in carbohydrates.

Also known as:
Arrowroot (General)Kudzu (Asia)
Scientific NameMaranta arundinacea
Region of OriginSouth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories65 kcal
Water
78%
Fiber2g
Total16.7g
Protein
1.3g(8%)
Fats
0.2g(1%)
Carbohydrates
15.2g(91%)

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%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcgVitamin K: 0.2 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium23 mg (6%)
Phosphorus34 mg (5%)
Potassium420 mg (12%)
Zinc0.3 mg (3%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.2 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.2 mcg

Health Benefits

Arrowroot is easily digestible, making it suitable for individuals with digestive issues or recovering from illness.
It is gluten-free, making it an excellent alternative for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

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

How to Prepare & Consume

Arrowroot can be prepared by boiling, steaming, or grinding into a powder for use in recipes.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose arrowroot that is firm and free from blemishes. The skin should be smooth and unwrinkled.

How to Store

Store arrowroot in a cool, dry place. If powdered, keep it in an airtight container 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 as a thickening agent in sauces and soups
Recommended for infants and those with digestive disorders
Bioactive Compounds
Starch

Provides energy and aids in digestion.

How to Consume
Cooked, Powdered, as a thickener
Did you know?

"Arrowroot has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for digestive issues and is still popular in many cultures today."

Myths vs Realities

MythArrowroot is only for babies.
RealityWhile arrowroot is great for infants, it is also beneficial for adults, especially those with digestive issues.
MythArrowroot is the same as tapioca.
RealityArrowroot and tapioca are different starches derived from different plants.
MythArrowroot has no nutritional value.
RealityArrowroot is a source of carbohydrates and provides energy, along with some vitamins and minerals.

Healthy Recipes

Arrowroot Pancakes with Blueberry Compote

Fluffy arrowroot pancakes topped with a luscious blueberry compote make for a delightful and nutritious breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup arrowroot flour
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix arrowroot flour, baking powder, and almond milk until smooth.
  2. 2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add coconut oil.
  3. 3. Pour batter into the skillet to form pancakes; cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden.
  4. 4. In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, lemon juice, and maple syrup; cook until blueberries burst and sauce thickens.
  5. 5. Serve pancakes warm, drizzled with blueberry compote.

Arrowroot Vegetable Soup

A nourishing vegetable soup thickened with arrowroot, packed with vitamins and minerals for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder
  • 1 cup spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat; sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. 3. Mix arrowroot powder with a little water to create a slurry, then stir into the soup to thicken.
  4. 4. Add spinach and cook until wilted; season with salt and pepper before serving.

Arrowroot and Coconut Energy Balls

These no-bake energy balls combine arrowroot flour and coconut for a healthy snack that's perfect for on-the-go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup arrowroot flour
  • 1 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix arrowroot flour, shredded coconut, almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
  2. 2. Roll the mixture into small balls and place on a parchment-lined tray.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Arrowroot Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad featuring arrowroot for added texture and nutrition, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup arrowroot, cooked and diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced arrowroot, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine; serve chilled.

Arrowroot Chocolate Pudding

A rich and creamy chocolate pudding made with arrowroot for a healthier dessert option that's still indulgent.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups almond milk
  • 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, whisk together almond milk, arrowroot powder, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and salt.
  2. 2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
  3. 3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract; pour into serving dishes and refrigerate until set.

Arrowroot and Spinach Fritters

Crispy and nutritious fritters made with arrowroot and fresh spinach, perfect as a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup arrowroot flour
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine arrowroot flour, chopped spinach, onion, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet.
  3. 3. Fry until golden brown on both sides; drain on paper towels before serving.

Arrowroot Fruit Smoothie

A vibrant and nutritious smoothie featuring arrowroot for added thickness and a boost of energy.

Ingredients
  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup frozen berries
  • 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine banana, frozen berries, arrowroot powder, almond milk, and honey.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy; adjust sweetness if desired.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Arrowroot and Lentil Stew

A hearty stew combining arrowroot and lentils, packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup arrowroot, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pot; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced arrowroot, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 30 minutes; serve warm.

Arrowroot and Apple Muffins

Deliciously moist muffins made with arrowroot flour and fresh apples, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup arrowroot flour
  • 1 cup grated apple
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix arrowroot flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. 3. In another bowl, combine grated apple, almond milk, and honey; mix well.
  4. 4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed; pour into muffin tins.
  5. 5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Arrowroot and Chickpea Curry

A flavorful and nutritious curry featuring arrowroot and chickpeas, perfect for a wholesome dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 cup arrowroot, diced
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat coconut oil in a pot; sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Stir in curry powder, chickpeas, diced arrowroot, and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
  3. 3. Cook for 15-20 minutes until arrowroot is tender; season with salt before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is arrowroot used for?

Arrowroot is primarily used as a thickening agent in cooking and is also beneficial for digestive health.

Is arrowroot gluten-free?

Yes, arrowroot is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

How do you prepare arrowroot?

Arrowroot can be boiled, steamed, or ground into a powder for various culinary uses.

Can arrowroot be used in baking?

Yes, arrowroot can be used in baking as a substitute for flour in gluten-free recipes.

Is arrowroot good for babies?

Yes, arrowroot is easily digestible and is often recommended for infants.

What are the health benefits of arrowroot?

Arrowroot is known for its digestive benefits and is a good source of carbohydrates.

How should arrowroot be stored?

Arrowroot powder should be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Can arrowroot cause allergies?

Arrowroot is generally considered safe, but individuals with specific allergies should consult a healthcare provider.