Tacca (Polynesian arrowroot)

Tacca leontopetaloides

root

White starch taken from a bitter tuber, grated and washed several times, for Polynesian puddings.

Origin

Southeast Asia and the Pacific

Where to find it

On beaches and sandy island soils; in Tahiti, the starch is sold in packets.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

Only the prepared starch: the raw tuber is bitter and irritating.

Molecules

In small amounts, not counted Insoluble fibers

Did you know?

In Tahiti, pia is used to thicken po'e, a banana or papaya dessert.