Konnyaku

Konnyaku is a jelly-like cake made of the powdered konjac yam. Its gelatinous texture is similar to mochi or tapioca, all of which form a satisfying wobble from their starch content.

The jiggle of konnyaku can be an acquired taste, but for those who do like it, it’s popularly added to dishes because of the satisfying texture.

It has very few nutrients, with almost no fat, protein, or indeed calories, other than fiber from the yam. It’s also almost flavorless by itself, but like similar foods it absorbs other flavors well. For this reason, it’s popular in simmered meals like hot pots and soups.

Konnyaku comes in a handful of different varieties. These include the common rectangular cake, smaller konnyaku balls, or even whole noodles made of it, among others. While dotted gray and white are the most common colors, there’s also konnyaku that’s yellow, green, red, and more.

You can find konnyaku at our Uwajimaya stores in the refrigerated grocery aisle.