Unlike what its name implies, tigernut is actually not a nut at all. It is a tuber vegetable full of minerals and nutrients that benefit your health. Also known as “chufa,” these superfood tubers were some of the first known sources of sustenance for our ancestors millions of years ago. In fact, they made up 80% of the Paleo diet as humans evolved. 

 

Tigernuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, magnesium, potassium, amino acids and protein. (add links to foods). While they are praised for their diverse makeup of healthy nutrients, they are most notably known for their prebiotic properties that stem from a specific fiber known as “resistant starch.” This feeds the good bacteria found in your gut flora yet unlike other fibers, its low on the glycemic index.

 

Since they are grain-free, gluten-free, and nut-free, they are safe for most if not all of those with food allergies. However, their prebiotic properties may cause an imbalance in some, so it’s advised to slowly introduce tigernuts to see how your body reacts. 

 

As a tuber, they need to be soaked in water for 12 hours before eating or using in recipes. Tigernut is also processed into a flour, an oil, and milk.

 

As a flour, it is subtly sweet in flavor and has a slightly grainy texture.