Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Keto Paleo Low Calorie Low Carb Whole30

Water Chestnut

Eleocharis dulcis Allergen-Free
water chestnut

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cyperaceae
  • Primary Cuisine East Asian (Chinese)
  • Seasonality Year-Round (canned); Winter (fresh in some regions)
  • Source Water chestnut plant (corm)

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of texture, keeping dishes lively and crunchy."

Definition

An aquatic corm, typically round and brown, known for its crisp, white flesh and subtly sweet, nutty flavor, commonly used in Asian cuisine.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild, Subtly Sweet, Nutty, Earthy
TextureVery Crisp, Juicy, Firm
AromaMild, Earthy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production (2020 est.)

~1.3 million metric tons

Shelf Life (Fresh, Refrigerated)

1-2 weeks

Water Content

~80-85%

Nutrition Facts

Per 70g (1/2 cup sliced)
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1 g
Total Carbohydrate9 g
Dietary Fiber2 g
Total Sugars4 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium300 mg

Chef’s Secret

For maximum crispness in stir-fries, add sliced water chestnuts at the very end of cooking, just before serving, to minimize heat exposure.

Substitutions

Best Match

Jicama

1:1

Best substitute for its similar crisp, juicy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. Great for stir-fries and salads.

Canned Bamboo Shoots

1:1

Offers a similar crunchy texture in cooked dishes, though with a slightly earthier flavor.

Daikon Radish (raw)

1:1

Provides a crisp texture, but introduces a peppery, slightly bitter flavor that may alter the dish. Best for fresh applications.

Celery

1:1

If only a crunchy texture is needed, celery can serve, but its flavor is more pronounced and fibrous.

Buying Guide

Canned water chestnuts are most common; choose whole over sliced for better texture. Fresh are superior but harder to find.

Flavor Pairings

Stir-fries spring rolls dim sum salads chicken dishes duck dishes soups.

Recipes Using Water Chestnut

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Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains 3 Steps Or Less Number Of Servings

Asian Beef And Noodles

Savor the explosion of flavors in this quick and easy Asian Beef and Noodles Stir-Fry! Tender sirloin steak is tossed with vibrant vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snow peas in a savory sauce, all served over perfectly cooked noodles. A delicious and satisfying weeknight meal ready in under 40 minutes!

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Ground Beef Equipment 60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Asian Beef Lettuce Wraps

Craving a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner? These Asian Beef Lettuce Wraps are the perfect solution! This family-favorite recipe bursts with delicious Asian-inspired flavors – savory beef, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sauce – all nestled in crisp lettuce cups. Easy to customize to your spice preference, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Nuts Salads Brown Rice Low Cholesterol

Asian Brown Rice And Peanut Salad Toss

A vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired salad featuring nutty brown rice, crunchy peanuts, and a tangy honey-soy dressing! This recipe, adapted from the renowned 'Whole Wheat Cooking' cookbook, is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. Get ready to impress with this unique and delicious salad that's surprisingly easy to make. (Note: Allow 30-40 minutes for the rice to cool.)

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Cuisine Time To Make Free Of Something Main Dish

Asian Chicken Meatballs

Satisfy your craving for juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs with this irresistible Asian-inspired recipe! Bursting with garlic, ginger, and a medley of aromatic spices, these tender meatballs are a family favorite. Serve them alongside a vibrant vegetable stir-fry and fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Don't be intimidated by the generous amounts of garlic and ginger – they create a beautifully mellow yet intensely flavorful base.

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Equipment Inexpensive Stove Top Time To Make

Asian Chicken Or Turkey Crispy Lettuce Wraps

Craving a vibrant and flavorful meal? These Asian Chicken or Turkey Crispy Lettuce Wraps are bursting with deliciousness! Juicy ground chicken or turkey, mixed with savory teriyaki, peanut butter, and a hint of spice, is perfectly nestled in crisp lettuce cups. A quick and easy weeknight dinner, these wraps are also incredibly adaptable – leftover rice can be added to the filling for extra heartiness. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and refreshing!

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Chicken Breasts Brunch No Cook Fruit

Asian Chicken Salad With Orange Ginger Dressing

This vibrant Asian-inspired chicken salad is a delightful and healthy meal, perfect for a quick lunch or light supper. Customize it to your liking! Easily adaptable for vegetarians by substituting chicken with tofu. The zesty orange ginger dressing adds a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more! Get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy-to-make recipe.

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Dietary Egg Free Vegetables Onions

Asian Ground Beef Pepper And Onion Saute

This fiery Asian Ground Beef & Pepper Stir-Fry is a family favorite! We've amped up the flavor with a vibrant sauce, tender water chestnuts, and a delicious kick from ginger, red pepper flakes, and chili paste. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is Weight Watchers friendly (3 points per serving using 96% lean ground beef) and makes 6 generous servings. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Course Side Dishes Time To Make Inexpensive

Asian Sweet And Spicy Noodles Vegetarian

Craving a vibrant and flavorful noodle dish? This Asian Sweet & Spicy Vegetarian Noodles recipe is a game-changer! Quick, easy, and incredibly versatile, it's perfect for a weeknight meal or a make-ahead picnic. The sweet and spicy sauce, featuring honey, rice wine vinegar, and chili garlic sauce, coats perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a symphony of tastes. Loaded with colorful veggies like baby corn, chestnuts, bell peppers, and peas, this recipe is both satisfying and healthy. Add protein like shrimp or chicken to make it a complete meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Main Dish Stir Fry Stove Top Low In Something

Asparagus Shrimp Noodles

This surprisingly delicious Asparagus Shrimp Noodle recipe was born from a happy accident! Using fresh or frozen asparagus, this quick and easy dish is packed with flavor. Customize the heat with chili paste to your liking. Perfect for a weeknight meal, and light enough to fit into almost any healthy eating plan. Get ready to be amazed!

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Equipment Preparation Dietary Time To Make

Bacon Wrap Arounds

These irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Chestnut Bites are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer! Sweet and savory chestnuts get a smoky bacon hug, creating an unforgettable flavor combination. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is surprisingly simple and sure to impress your guests. Perfect for holiday parties, game day, or any occasion!

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Preparation 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion 5 Ingredients Or Less

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts Rumaki

This recipe for Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnut Rumaki offers a delightful twist on a classic appetizer. A treasured recipe passed down from a dear friend, every bite evokes warm memories. Perfectly crisp bacon wraps succulent water chestnuts, creating a savory and satisfying treat. Get ready to be transported with every bite! (Note: Water chestnut can size is estimated.)

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Number Of Servings Taste Mood Sweet 5 Ingredients Or Less

Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Crispy bacon wraps juicy water chestnuts in these addictive appetizers! These tasty little bites are guaranteed to disappear fast at your next gathering. Perfect for parties, game days, or a fun weeknight snack. Prep time includes assembly.

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4 Hours Or Less Northeastern United States North American Side Dishes

Baked French Rice

This creamy, dreamy Baked French Rice Casserole is a family favorite, passed down through generations! Inspired by a recipe from 30 years ago, this comforting dish features tender rice, savory mushrooms, and water chestnuts baked to perfection in a rich and creamy sauce. Get ready for rave reviews – it's guaranteed to become a staple in your own family's recipe book!

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Holiday Event Dinner Party Dips Appetizers

Baked Spinach Dip Loaf

This incredible Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip Loaf recipe is a crowd-pleaser perfect for your next holiday gathering or party! A warm, cheesy, and flavorful dip baked inside a crusty bread loaf. This recipe transforms a simple appetizer into a show-stopping centerpiece. Get ready for rave reviews!

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North American Course North American Kid Friendly

Barbecued Chestnuts In Bacon

Sweet and savory perfection! Indulge in these tantalizing barbecued water chestnuts wrapped in crispy bacon. This 23-minute recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or a unique party snack. The smoky bacon complements the subtly sweet water chestnuts, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion.

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Time To Make Course Salads 15 Minutes Or Less

Chicken Noodle Slaw

This vibrant Asian-inspired chicken noodle slaw is a flavor explosion! Sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy noodles and veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing combine for a satisfying and refreshing dish that's perfect as a side or light meal. Save time by using pre-shredded coleslaw mix and pre-cooked chicken! (Note: Recipe updated June 2011 to include two cans of mandarin oranges and optional peanuts.)

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Preparation Time To Make Preparation Course

Shrimp Wontons With Sweet Sauce

Crispy, golden shrimp wontons bursting with flavor! These delightful appetizers are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight snack. Fry them to crispy perfection or steam them for a lighter option – delicious either way! Our irresistible sweet and tangy dipping sauce elevates this classic to a whole new level. Make ahead and freeze for easy OAMC (One-And-Make-Cook) convenience.

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