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What is Sweet Bunting? Let's find out together!

The Sweet Bunting (also called “earth almond” in Italian, “Chufas ” in Spanish and “ Tiger Nut ” in English) is a tuber obtained from a plant called Cyperus esculentus. It is a herbaceous plant with greenish or yellowish flowers that reaches 40-50 centimeters in height , characterized by a rhizomatic root system in which the so-called " earth almonds " are formed .

Its diffusion is very ancient: it is thought that it was already used 4000 years ago by the ancient Egyptians !

DIFFUSION AND USES IN THE WORLD

The Arab populations brought this tuber to Spain, where it still finds its greatest use today: in the Comunidad Valenciana the "Orchata de Chufa" is produced, a drink which also boasts the protected designation of origin.

As well as in drinks, the small rhizomes can be used naturally, dried and ground to make a flour for the creation of both sweet and savory baked products, thanks to the pleasant sweet-almond flavour.

The additional idea, carried out by IoBoscovivo, is to use it laminated: crunchy flakes to be used in milk, vegetable drinks and yogurt, for excellent breakfasts and wellness snacks.

NUTRITIONAL ASPECTS

Let's see what the nutritional aspects of this tuber are and the advantages of introducing it into our daily diet:

  • it is naturally gluten-free, therefore suitable for celiac patients and all those who wish to reduce the consumption of this protein;
  • it has a composition of high quality fatty acids: the high percentage of the monounsaturated component (as happens with olive oil) makes it a precious ally for cardiovascular well-being;
  • contains insoluble fibers and resistant starch, which make it an important nourishment for the intestinal microbial flora, giving it the nickname "Prebiotic";
  • it is an excellent source of vitamins (E and C in particular) and mineral salts (iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc).

All very important elements for our well-being, Iron deserves a special mention: its deficiency is immediately evident with chronic fatigue symptoms!

This happens because:

  • it is a component of hemoglobin, which in red blood cells transports oxygen throughout the body;
  • intervenes in the construction of myoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen present in muscle fibers and is important for their functionality;
  • finally, we find it in various enzymes that play fundamental roles in numerous metabolic reactions.

IN CONCLUSION

It's nice when Nature "gives" us such a high quality raw material: with a view to varying our diet, which has become monotonous (with consequent increase in intolerances because we always eat the same foods) and in the name of "ultra- processed food”, the idea of ​​adding it to our dishes is certainly a winner for our well-being!

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