What Is Daikon? A Simple Guide to This Delicious Radish
By Lisa Bot | Published 2 October 2024
What Is Daikon?
Daikon is a type of radish that's popular in Asian cuisines, especially in Japan, China, and Korea. Unlike the small, red radishes you might be used to, daikon is usually long, white, and shaped a bit like a carrot, but thicker.
The word "daikon" comes from Japanese, meaning "big root," which is a good description of its appearance. It's a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled, making it a staple in many dishes.
Varieties of Daikon
While the most common type of daikon is white and cylindrical, there are other varieties you might come across.
The Korean "mu" is similar but shorter and rounder with a greenish top.
Watermelon radish, another variety, has a light green outer layer and a bright pink interior.
These varieties can differ slightly in taste, with some having a stronger bite than others, but they all share the crisp, juicy texture that daikon is known for.
What Does Daikon Taste Like?
Daikon has a mild taste with a hint of sweetness and just a bit of spice. If you've eaten red radishes, you’ll notice that daikon is much milder.
When eaten raw, it’s crunchy and refreshing, making it perfect for salads or as a garnish. When cooked, daikon becomes softer and has a texture similar to a cooked potato, but without the starchiness. The flavour also mellows out even more, becoming almost sweet.
Nutritional Benefits
Daikon isn’t just tasty — it’s good for you too. It’s low in calories but high in nutrients.
A typical serving of daikon provides a good amount of vitamin C, which is great for your immune system. It’s also a source of potassium, which helps with fluid balance in your body.
Daikon is often praised for aiding digestion and detoxification, which is why it’s commonly served at the end of meals in some cultures. Its high fibre content makes it a good choice for those looking to improve their gut health.
How To Choose And Store Daikon
When shopping for daikon, look for ones that feel heavy for their size with smooth, firm skin. If the leaves are still attached, they should be bright green and not wilted.
Avoid any daikons with soft spots or cracks, as these are signs that it’s past its best.
To store daikon, remove the leaves if they’re still attached and store them separately. The root can be wrapped in a plastic bag and kept in the fridge, where it’ll last for up to two weeks.
If you’ve already cut it, make sure it’s tightly wrapped, as daikon can give off a strong smell that might affect other foods in your fridge.
How To Use Daikon
Daikon is incredibly versatile. You can eat it raw in salads, slice it thin for pickling, or add it to soups and stews.
It’s a key ingredient in dishes like Japanese pickles (takuan), Korean kimchi, and Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches.
Grated daikon is often served as a garnish with tempura or other fried foods to add a fresh, crisp contrast. If you’re into spiralising vegetables, daikon can even be turned into noodles for a low-carb option.
How To Cook Daikon
Cooking daikon is simple and can bring out different flavours depending on how you prepare it.
When boiled or steamed, daikon becomes tender and takes on a slightly sweet taste. It’s commonly added to soups, curries, and stews.
Roasting daikon gives it a golden-brown colour and a caramelised flavour that works well as a side dish. You can also stir-fry it with other vegetables or meat for a quick and healthy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is daikon the same as regular radish?
Daikon is a type of radish, but it’s different from the small red radishes you might be used to. It’s larger, milder, and less peppery.
Can you eat daikon raw?
Yes, daikon can be eaten raw. It’s often used in salads, as a garnish, or in pickles. Its crunchy texture and mild taste make it a refreshing addition to many dishes.
What’s the best way to store daikon?
To keep daikon fresh, remove the leaves and store the root in a plastic bag in the fridge. It should last for up to two weeks if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
Daikon is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that’s worth trying if you haven’t already. Whether you’re eating it raw in a salad, pickled in a sandwich, or cooked in a stew, daikon can add a fresh, mild flavour and a satisfying crunch to your meals. Its health benefits are an added bonus, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
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