In Malaysian culinary traditions, there is a beloved dish known as “fried carrot cake.” However, it may surprise you to learn that this scrumptious delight contains no carrots at all. Instead, the star ingredient is the humble white radish. Radishes are grown and enjoyed worldwide, with various types ranging from spring to summer radishes. Today, let’s delve into the world of the Chinese white radish, an ever-present gem in Malaysian cuisine. This mild and versatile radish, also known as daikon or “mooli” in Hindi, and commonly referred to as “lo bak,” has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. The Japanese word “daikon” translates to “great root,” perfectly capturing the essence of this large and flavorful vegetable.
In Malaysia, the Chinese white radish typically boasts a creamy white hue, although black-skinned varieties do exist. With its mildly spicy and tart flavor, the white radish is an excellent addition to your grocery list, especially for runners seeking a nutritious boost.
Power Up with Vitamin C
As marathons approach, it’s crucial to bolster your immune system and ward off the dreaded common cold. Since humans lack the enzyme necessary to synthesize Vitamin C, it’s essential to stock up on this vital nutrient, which is also stored in the body for a limited time. Surprisingly, a single white radish packs a whopping 74.4mg of Vitamin C, making it an ideal vegetable to supply your body with antioxidants. Furthermore, Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the growth and repair of tissues throughout the body, benefiting every runner.
Diverse Delights with Daikon
Wondering how to make the most of this versatile vegetable? The possibilities are endless! You can pickle it, steam it into delicious dim sum cakes, or grate it raw to serve alongside sashimi. The Chinese white radish lends itself to numerous culinary adventures, and the best part is that it only contains 24 calories while providing a generous amount of fiber. Despite being low in calories, this vegetable is packed with energy-giving nutrients.
A Powerful Ally Against Cancer
While lacing up your running shoes certainly contributes to the fight against cancer, consider adding Chinese white radish to your superfoods arsenal. Packed with antioxidants, this radish variety is rich in compounds that combat cancer. Antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, which, when present in high concentrations, can damage cellular components, including DNA. By incorporating Chinese white radish into your diet, you can enhance your body’s defense against cancer.
Soothe Your Runner’s Stomach
Have you ever experienced an upset stomach during a marathon? We understand how uncomfortable and troubling this can be for runners. But fear not! The white radish is one of the best food sources of digestive enzymes. Enzymes such as diastase, amylase, and esterase, found in white radish, help the body digest with greater ease. It’s no wonder that raw radish daikon is a common element in Japanese cuisine, as it assists in the digestion of oily foods like tempura.
Choosing the Perfect White Radish
When selecting Chinese white radishes, opt for evenly sized ones without any surface bumps, if possible. Older radishes tend to appear duller in both color and texture.
Fun Facts to Savor
Radishes are so popular worldwide that in Oaxaca, Mexico, they celebrate the “Night of the Radishes” festival, where radishes are skillfully carved into intricate sculptures of animals, dancers, saints, conquerors, and everything imaginable.
The world’s heaviest radish, weighing a whopping 31.1kg, holds a place in the Guinness World Records. This colossal radish was grown in Japan in 2003.
European spring and summer radishes bear fascinating names like “Cherry Belle,” “Bunny Tail,” “Sicily Giant,” and “French Breakfast.”
Embrace the Wonders of Chinese White Radish
From its surprising presence in Malaysian culinary traditions to its numerous health benefits for runners, the Chinese white radish truly stands out as an exceptional vegetable. Whether you’re seeking immune support, digestive aid, or an exciting addition to your dishes, this versatile radish delivers on all fronts. So, dive into the wonders of the Chinese white radish and explore the endless possibilities it brings to your table.
