• The edible corn (or root) portion of the water chestnut plant
• It is a small round corn with crispy white flesh
• It can be consumed raw, boiled, steamed, grilled, pickled, and used in a variety of Chinese desserts, dishes and soups
• It is slightly sweet and retains its crispiness (even after being cooked)

How do I prepare it?

• Fresh water chestnuts contain a high amount of dirt because they grow submerged in water
• Rinse well under warm water
• Peel with a knife of peeler (like you would an apple) the skin of the water chestnut
• Some people like to soak in slightly salted water (to prevent browning of the root)

Where can I buy this?

• You can purchase fresh water chestnuts from most Asian supermarkets and wet marts in Hong Kong
• You can also purchase frozen water chestnuts
• Canned water chestnuts are also available

What is the cost?

• Water chestnuts are relatively affordable and costs around $5 HKD for 10 medium sized water chestnuts

Any benefits?

• Water chestnuts are an excellent source of dietary fiber, riboflavin, Vitamin B6, potassium, copper and manganese
• They contain a high amount of carbohydrates and starch
• It is a relatively cooling food and is said to help relieve coughs

Any precautions?

• Due to its relatively cooling effect, pregnant women (especially those who have not yet reached 3 months to term) should consume with caution
• Raw water chestnuts contain a disease called Fasciolopsiasis, in which a parasite infects the plant (the water chestnut) being eaten.  This can cause in extreme cases diarrhea, fever, stomach pains and fever – so be sure to boil and cook water chestnuts thoroughly before consumption

Any substitutes?

• Depending on the soup you’re making, you can substitute with fresh apples, but then you may be better off making another soup instead and not use arrowroots

Additional Information?

• Fresh water chestnuts can keep in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks if sealed
• Frozen water chestnuts can keep for up to 6 months in the freezer
• You can also purchase canned water chestnuts

References:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleocharis_dulcis