What Is Daikon?
A large, mild-flavored white radish, commonly used in East Asian cuisine, known for its crisp texture.
What Does Daikon Taste Like?
Daikon has a mildly pungent, peppery, slightly sweet taste with earthy, slightly sulfurous aromas.
- Taste
- Mildly pungent, Peppery, Slightly sweet
- Texture
- Crisp, Juicy, Firm
- Aroma
- Earthy, Slightly sulfurous
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 85g (1 cup sliced) Calories18 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.6 g
Total Carbohydrate4.1 g
Dietary Fiber1.6 g
Total Sugars2.5 g
Calcium27 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium227 mg
Chef’s Secret
Grated daikon is excellent for tenderizing meat or as a palate cleanser with fatty dishes like tempura or grilled fish.
Daikon Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Daikon is Red Radish, used at a 1:1 ratio. Similar crisp texture and peppery bite, though smaller and more intense.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Red Radish Best | 1:1 | Similar crisp texture and peppery bite, though smaller and more intense. |
| Turnip | 1:1 | Good for cooked applications, milder flavor, slightly softer texture. |
| Jicama | 1:1 | Offers similar crunch and mild sweetness, excellent for raw dishes. |
| Kohlrabi | 1:1 | Crisp texture and slightly sweet, mild flavor, works well raw or cooked. |
How to Choose & Store Daikon
- Choose firm, blemish-free daikon.
- Store refrigerated to maintain crispness.
What Pairs Well With Daikon?
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Rice vinegar
- Ginger
- Miso
- Carrots
- Cucumbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Daikon taste like?
Mildly pungent, Peppery, Slightly sweet Earthy, Slightly sulfurous
What is a good substitute for Daikon?
The best substitute is Red Radish (1:1). Similar crisp texture and peppery bite, though smaller and more intense.
How do you choose and store Daikon?
Choose firm, blemish-free daikon. Store refrigerated to maintain crispness.