In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about bamboo, including what it tastes like, how the texture is and what to do with it in your kitchen.
Let’s get right to it…
What Does Bamboo Taste Like?
Bamboo shoots have a flavor that’s somewhat similar to water chestnuts with an extremely mild flavor. It’s subtly earthy, woody and a touch nutty.
Note that if it tastes particularly bitter, then it has either been stored in the refrigerator too long or it could contain unsafe toxins and should not be eaten. We’ll explain more about this below.
Related Article: What Do Apricots Taste Like?
Bamboo Texture
Bamboo is certainly agreeable in taste and easy to pair with other flavors, but it’s the texture that people are mostly after, which is firm and crunchy.
This crunchiness is especially what makes bamboo much like the water chestnut. Other vegetables get soggy in a can, but even canned bamboo shoots are pleasantly fibrous and crisp.
You Might Also Like: What Do Artichoke Hearts Taste Like?
Is It Safe to Eat Bamboo?
Once bamboo has been properly cooked, it’s absolutely safe to eat. We would advise you to do thorough research if you’re thinking of cooking fresh bamboo shoots.
The process of rendering them safe for human consumption involves heavy-duty cooking. You can also buy canned bamboo shoots, which massively cut down on the preparation.
Recommended Article: What Do Banana Peppers Taste Like? Are They Hotter Than Jalapenos?
Are Canned Bamboo Shoots Cooked?
Most likely, a tin of bamboo shoots has been cooked already so that you can just add it to your recipes and not worry about cooking the toxins out of it.
You can check with the producer of the canned bamboo shoots if you’re not sure. If there isn’t an answer already on the company website, a customer service email or telephone number is usually provided so that you can ask directly.
Also Related: What Do Black Eyed Peas Taste Like?
Bamboo Serving Tips
We’re going to show you what to do with canned bamboo shoots, which are easier to work with than the fresh stuff. The videos linked below offer guided recipes for curry and stir-fry.
This is a Nepalese stir-fry with bamboo shoots, potatoes and curry powder. It’s a tasty, filling meal any time of the year.
You’ll need:
- Neutral cooking oil
- Onions
- Green chili peppers
- Potatoes
- Bamboo shoots
- Turmeric
- Cumin or Chinese five-spice powder
- Salt
- Fresh cilantro or coriander
- Water
Here’s a recipe for stir-fried bamboo shoots in a spicy, savory sauce. It can be served as a side or pumped up with other veggies for a full-on stir-fry dinner.
The ingredients are simple:
- Sesame Oil
- Green chili pepper
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Bamboo shoots
- Tamari
- Rice vinegar
- Scallions
Wrap Up
Fresh bamboo needs some serious prepping and cooking before it can be safely eaten due to a naturally occurring toxin. Don’t worry, properly cooked bamboo shoots are harmless. You can buy canned bamboo shoots, most of which should already be cooked for you. Add these crunchy nibbles to your stir-fries for a nice, crisp texture.
Further Reading: What Do Blackberries Taste Like?
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
