A type of gelatinous black bean curd processed from the taro-like, glutinous root of konnyaku (konjak) yams or 'devil's tongue' or shirataki noodle mix into spaghetti-like threads. It is calorie-free, is 90% water and helps cleanse the digestive system. Konnyaku is valued more for its texture than flavour and is cut into strips and added to vegetable soups, salads and simmered dishes. It can either be unrefined, in which case it is a dirty grey, or refined by bleaching and filtering, in which case it is pearly white and comes in several different shapes. It is also available in tins.
