Delicacies from ‘Under the Ground’: A Tasty Treat from South to North, with a Crisp and Refreshing Crunch, and an Even Sweeter Fragrance When Cooked in Soup.

The water caltrop tuber has a dark brown outer skin, is about the size of an onion, and features white flesh with a crisp texture and a sweet, refreshing taste. Photo: Liêm Sitting

Ms. Vu Lan, a trader in Cao Lanh City, Dong Thap, shared that water caltrop tubers are usually harvested towards the end of the year, around November to December, and this harvest period can last for a few months. Depending on the region, the harvest time for these tubers may vary.

After being pulled out of the muddy soil, the water caltrop tubers are cleaned by locals, revealing their dark brown outer skin.

Water caltrop tubers are washed, peeled, and then consumed fresh or used in desserts and cooling drinks.

Ms. Lan mentioned that water caltrop tubers are delicious when eaten fresh or incorporated into desserts and cooling beverages.

When consumed fresh, the outer skin is peeled off, and the crisp, sweet, and aromatic tuber is enjoyed. Its taste and texture are similar to those of yardlong beans.

Water caltrop tubers are delicious when cooked into desserts or made into cooling tea. Photo: Le Tram

For a more elaborate preparation, water caltrop tubers can be made into a soup, simmered to create a naturally sweet broth, or used in desserts and as boba pearls, adding an intriguing twist to these dishes.

“This tuber has a sweet and refreshing taste, making it ideal for summer consumption,” Ms. Lan remarked.

Due to its crisp texture, sweet taste, and health benefits, the water caltrop tuber is likened to a “treasure beneath the earth” and a “precious gift from nature.” Photo: Thach Lan

After peeling, water caltrop tubers are vacuum-packed to prolong their shelf life and facilitate transportation to various provinces and cities nationwide. Photo: Thach Lan

Not only is the water caltrop tuber delicious and versatile in culinary applications, but it is also considered a medicinal herb due to its nutritional profile and positive effects on human health.

According to the book “Vietnamese Medicinal Plants and Herbs” by Professor Dr. Do Tat Loi, in addition to being a nutritious and cooling food, water caltrop is also used to treat diabetes, liver diseases (jaundice), and heat-related ailments (dysentery with blood in the stool, constipation, and red eyes).

However, individuals with weak spleen and kidney energy, as well as children with bedwetting issues, should refrain from consuming water caltrop. Furthermore, because this tuber grows in muddy environments, its outer skin may harbor parasitic larvae. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly clean the tubers and blanch them in boiling water before peeling and consumption.