Taro Root - Dasheen - Colocasia esculenta

Taro Root is the edible corm of the Taro plant, Colocasia esculenta, and is also known as Dasheen. Believed to be one of the earliest edible plants in cultivation, Taro is native to S.E. Asia and is grown primarily for its edible roots although the leaves are sometimes eaten as a vegetable.

The early Romans boiled Taro Root and ate it in a similar way that potatoes are used today. In parts of S.E.Asia, the Taro Root was a staple food before the introduction of rice.

Taro Root in its raw state is toxic but cooking or soaking the Taro Root in water removes all harmful traces. Taro Root has a very high starch content and it therefore provides good dietary fiber. Throughout the World, Taro Root has many uses and is an ingredient in Curries, Dim Sum, Cakes, Soups and Desserts and is also used as a flavour enhancer. Taro Root in Coconut Milk is a very popular Asian dessert.