Bamboo shoots or bamboo sprouts are the edible shoots (new bamboo culms that come out of the ground) of many bamboo species. They are used in numerous Asian dishes and broths and are sold in various processed shapes, and are available in fresh, dried, and canned versions.

HOW TO STORE?

Whole, unpeeled bamboo shoots should be stored in the crisp section of the refrigerator. They can then be cooked. Fresh shoots last up to two weeks inside a refrigerator and may develop a bitter taste if stored longer or earlier if exposed to sunlight.

HOW TO EAT?

Bamboo shoots are not to be eaten raw as they are bitter in taste and may cause indigestion. The best way would be to peel and boil / cook them prior to consumption.  The roots are to be trimmed, outer leaves removed and any hard flesh removed. The tender soft shoots can be cut in any manner one desires. Ideally one should cut across the grain. Bamboo shoots maybe boiled in an uncovered pan for about 20 minutes. This allows the bitterness to dissipate and makes the shoots crisp. They can also be microwaved in a shallow pan of water for about 5 minutes to achieve the same results.

HOW HEALTHY ARE BAMBOO SHOOTS?

They have a number of health benefits including improving appetite and digestion, weight loss, apart from serious medical benefits like curing cardiovascular diseases and cancer.  Research is now hailing it as a modern natural medicine. It can improve cholesterol levels.  Bamboo shoots are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that’s been shown to lower blood pressure. Since bamboo shoots are high in fiber content, they help in preventing constipation and promoting healthier bowel movements.