Konnyaku is a firm
jelly-like substance made from the a root called 'devils tounge' or konnyaku potato. The root is part of the
Taro family. The konnyaku potato has a mild flavor, a rough abrasive skin, and a distinctive texture. The konnyaku
potato is grated fresh or dried and powdered, and then boiled to make the konnyaku. Konnyaku is produced in a number of different forms,
shiratake, for example, is konnyaku in thin
strings.
Konnyaku needs to be boiled before use. It can be used in
soup, plain, fried, etc...