Product descriptions
Ingredients. tapioca starch
Manioc or tapioca is a plant native to Central and South America, but is now cultivated in large areas of Asia and Africa. The main use is for the tuber of the plant, which is the world's largest source of carbohydrates after rice and maize.
Tapioca tubers are not suitable for human consumption when raw, but after processing, the products available in shops are not a problem. It is mainly used in the form of beads and powder, but is also used in animal feed and, because of its high starch content, can be used as a raw material in the textile and paper industry. Interestingly, it is also used to make glue and alcohol, and has a prominent role in biofuel production.
In some countries the leaves of the plant are also consumed, which contain a much wider range of nutrients than the tuber.
Tapioca pearl is made from tapioca tubers without the addition of additives. It is a popular ingredient in Southeast Asia, mainly used in desserts and specialties such as bubble tea.
Importance, effects:
Tapioca contains mainly carbohydrates and starch, with very little fibre, so it has a high glycaemic index and raises blood sugar levels rapidly. It is therefore suitable for quick energy (for athletes), but not recommended for those who want to lose weight. It is low in protein and has negligible fat content. Its vitamin and mineral composition is not particularly significant. Tapioca is naturally gluten-free, so it is safe for people with celiac disease. It contains no lactose, so it can be used in lactose-free and dairy-free diets.
Uses:
Tapioca pearl is usually thought of as tapioca pudding, which can be eaten not only on its own, but also as a cream for cakes and tarts, or as a garnish for a more special dish. It can also be used as a thickening agent because of its ability to absorb water, or even as a soup base (it looks good in fruit soup).
To make tapioca pudding, first soak the tapioca pearls in water or vegetable milk for 10-15 minutes, then cook them, flavoured to taste, over a slow fire, stirring constantly, until they thicken (about 10-15 minutes). Spoon into small bowls and leave to cool.
Because of the neutral taste of tapioca, it can be made into sweet or savoury puddings. It is best served with fresh, juicy fruit.
Next time you want to surprise your guests with a really special, yet very simple drink, make them a bubble tea with tapioca pears! All you need to do is soak the tapioca pearls in black or strong coloured fruit tea, then let the pearls swell and take on the colour of the tea. The swollen pearls are then washed with cold water, strained and thoroughly mixed in a shaker or, failing that, a jar. Decorative glass