Kudzu to Heal the Winter Blues

Also known as kuzu, kudzu, pronounced KUD-zoo, is one of the medicinal super foods I always keep in my pantry. With many healing properties, this root thickener truly is a mom’s best friend.

How to Use Kudzu

A flavorless thickening agent, kudzu is a versatile ingredient that can be replaced as an exact substitution for cornstarch or arrowroot. Just 1 tablespoon of kudzu added to 1 cup of liquid creates a thick sauce-like consistency. Continue to increase kudzu for a thicker consistency. To use, merely crush lumps and make slurry by adding a little bit of cold or room temperature liquid. Put the kudzu slurry in your sauce, soup, pudding or any liquid you would like to thicken. Do this over heat and stir or whisk constantly until the liquid begins to thicken. Unlike arrowroot, kudzu continues to thicken as it cools.

How Kudzu Heals

• Relieves Edible Tension – eases the nervous system to help relieve tension associated with stiff necks, sore shoulders, achy backs and headaches. It’s great for the athletes in your family and everyone else after a long hard day.
• Soothes Tummy Aches – calms and eases digestion and combats gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and nausea.
• Boosts Immunity – reduces fevers naturally and has been linked to healing colds coughs, the flu, sinus infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and tonsillitis.
• Grants a Radiant Complexion – clears skin and heals rashes from the inside out.
• Eliminates Stress – eases anxiety, stress and tension.
• Calms Hyperactivity – kudzu pudding makes a great afterschool snack for your excited little ones.

My favorite way to use kudzu is by making a quick pudding combining one cup of a delicious fruit juice with one tablespoon of kudzu. Bring the juice to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Whisk in the kudzu slurry as explained above until the juice thickens. Enjoy warm or chilled. For a more creative recipe to try with your kids, check out my Gingerbread Kudzu Pudding with yummy Maple Cashew Cream.