What Is Konjac? The Root Behind It’s Skinny
Konjac root deserves some recognition. This little-known root vegetable is the powerhouse behind It’s Skinny Pasta!
People often ask how we make gluten-free, plant-based pasta with zero net carbs and extremely low calories (9 per pack). The answer lies in this amazing plant called konjac!
So, where does konjac come from? How is it used? What the heck is it? And why is konjac’s popularity on the rise?
Konjac: A Root By Any Other Name
Konjac has many names—Voodoo Lily, Snake Palm, Elephant Yam.
No matter what you call it, konjac refers to the starchy root of the plant Amorphophallus konjac.
The plant has long been used throughout Asia, particularly in China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. People have used the root in traditional diets and medicine for centuries.
The root of konjac is the primary portion consumed. The texture is similar to a turnip, radish, or even a potato.
But unlike other root vegetables, konjac is very high in a special type of fiber called glucomannan. This soluble fiber absorbs water, where it expands on a slow journey through the digestive system.
The result is a delicious, satisfying pasta that would give you the typical blood sugar spike and crash. There's no carb coma or feeling of being overstuffed, just pleasantly satiated.
The History of Konjac
The first use of konjac was over 1500 years ago in China and Japan. Initially, it was used as a detoxifying medicinal food. The root helped with digestion and was even used topically on the skin.
It became a staple in Japanese cuisine, particularly as konnyaku—a jelly cake made from konjac flour.
The root is used to thicken desserts and jellies, and as a base for seafood alternatives. The flour is used for drinks, candies, and noodles, where It’s Skinny and konjac root come together.
Shirataki noodles are noodles made from konjac root. Initially, they gained popularity as a diabetic-friendly pasta swap in the Western world. But people soon realized the noodles were delicious in their own right and perfect for many different eating styles.
It’s Skinny Noodles are:
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Plant-based
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Low-Carb
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Gluten-Free
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Kosher
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Keto-Friendly
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Available in Organic Styles
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And, a delicious way to eat healthily on any diet or meal plan.
At It’s Skinny, we’ve perfected konjac-based pasta. Our noodles have the ideal al dente texture and offer shelf-stable convenience. You can try all the varieties in your favorite dishes or explore our recipe database for cooking ideas.
Health Benefits of Konjac
So is konjac root a true miracle food? While it’s not a cure-all, it does have some fantastic health benefits!
Glucomannan fiber gives the noodles zero net carbs and an ultra-low-calorie count. It helps with blood sugar regulation—making it a great option for those with diabetes, hypoglycemia, and other blood sugar concerns.
Better still, glucomannan fiber promotes a feeling of satiety. The prebiotic fiber helps digestion and keeps you full for the long haul.
It's Skinny is also a great solution for folks with food allergies and intolerances. There are no gluten, dairy, or other common additives that can cause an allergic reaction. It’s safe for almost everyone to enjoy and ready in minutes (making it a convenient option when you’d rather not spend all day in the kitchen).
It’s Skinny is so low in carbs and calories that even intermittent fasters can enjoy a serving of It's Skinny with a bit of salt and butter and not worry about breaking the fast. It’s also a great option for keto dieters and others who may struggle with low-carb restrictions (a menu without their favorite dishes).
You can remake any pasta dish with It’s Skinny and still get all the delicious satisfaction you crave. The noodles have a neutral flavor that works with any sauce. There's no odor and no aftertaste (unlike some types of shirataki noodles).
Try It’s Skinny today in any of your favorite shapes:
We also offer a variety of ready-to-eat boxed meals—Velvety Mac, Truffle Parm Risotto, and Cacio e Pepe. It’s easy to have a healthy, convenient dinner with It’s Skinny!
From ancient medicine to modern low-carb kitchens, konjac has earned its place in the spotlight. It’s Skinny continues to innovate using this humble root vegetable to bring low-carb, low-calorie deliciousness to your plate.
Try It's Skinny today and taste the root changing the pasta game!
