Sabudana also known as Sago, Saksak, Rabia, and Sagu in various parts of the world is an edible starch extracted from the pith or the spongy center of tropical palm trees. For ages, it has been a staple for people staying in Tropical regions.
Sabu Dana
Physical Characteristics:
Form: Sabudana is typically found in the form of small, round, opaque pearls.
Color: It is usually white or off-white in color.
Texture: When raw, it's hard and opaque, but after soaking, it becomes soft, translucent, and slightly gelatinous.
Usage:
Culinary Use: Sabudana is a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine, especially during religious fasting or festivals. It's used to make dishes like sabudana khichdi (a savory dish made with soaked sabudana, spices, and often potatoes), sabudana vada (deep-fried savory fritters), and sweet dishes like sabudana kheer (a dessert made with sabudana, milk, and sugar).
Thickening Agent: It's also used as a thickening agent in soups, stews, and desserts due to its gel-like texture when cooked.
Nutritional Profile:
Starch: Sabudana is primarily composed of carbohydrates in the form of starch, making it a high-energy food.
Lack of Significant Nutrients: It doesn’t contain significant amounts of vitamins, minerals, or protein.
Gluten-Free: It's naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance.
Preparation:
Soaking: Before cooking, sabudana needs to be soaked in water to soften it. The pearls absorb water and expand significantly, becoming soft and translucent.
Cooking: It's cooked in various ways, either sautéed with spices and vegetables for savory dishes or boiled in milk for sweet dishes.
Health Considerations:
Caloric Content: It's a high-calorie food due to its carbohydrate content, making it an energy-dense option.
Lack of Protein: While it provides energy, it lacks significant protein and other essential nutrients found in balanced meals.
Sabudana is a versatile ingredient used in Indian cooking, particularly in dishes for fasting or celebrations. It's prized for its ability to provide energy and create a variety of flavorful and textured dishes.
SabuDana Nutritional Value
Protein: 0.2 gm
Fat: 0.2 gm
Carbohydrate: 87 gm
Energy: 351 kcal
Health Benefits Of Sabudana
Summary Table of Sabudana Benefits. Good for Digestive Health. ...
Good for Digestive Health. Sabudana is loaded with dietary fibre and helps keep the digestive system healthy. ...
Treats Anemia. ...
Prevents Hair Fall. ...
Lowers the Risk of Heart Disease. ...
Improves Bone Health. ...
Provides Nourishment to Babies. ...
Pacifies Acne.