Candied Arrowhead
Candied Arrowhead is a traditional sweet snack made from the corm of the arrowhead plant, which is sliced, coated in sugar or maltose, and then deep-fried or baked until crispy and golden. It is a popular treat in various regions of China, particularly during festive seasons like the Lunar New Year, and is also enjoyed in parts of Southeast Asia. The dish is known for its delightful combination of a crunchy exterior and a slightly chewy, starchy interior.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This snack is primarily high in carbohydrates due to its starchy base and sugar coating, providing a quick source of energy. A typical serving (about 100g) contains roughly 300-350 calories, with minimal protein and fat, and offers small amounts of dietary fiber and minerals like potassium from the arrowhead corm.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbs | 85 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 65 g |
| Sodium | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Phosphorus | 80 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
| Manganese | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg |
| Iron | 1.0 mg |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
Per 1 cup (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Candied Arrowhead is often associated with good luck and prosperity during Chinese New Year celebrations, symbolizing a 'sweet' start to the year. Nutritionally, arrowhead corms are a good source of resistant starch, which can support gut health, though the frying and sugaring process makes this an indulgent treat rather than a health food.
