I recently bought some kudzu root powder to drink. The instructions on the package say to mix the kudzu root powder into a paste, but every time I drink it, it doesn't become a paste. I would like to know how to make kudzu root powder into a paste.
How to Make Kudzu Root Powder into a Paste
1. Take about 15 grams of kudzu root powder and put it into a bowl.
2. Pour in about 15 milliliters of warm water and stir until the kudzu root powder becomes a milky white paste without any particles.
3. Pour in boiling water that is above 90 degrees Celsius while stirring until the kudzu root powder becomes a thick, translucent paste.
4. You can also add honey or rock sugar, mix well, and consume.
Why Didn't the Kudzu Root Powder Become a Paste
Kudzu root powder is a type of starch food. If the kudzu root powder doesn't become a paste when mixed, it may be related to the temperature and amount of water used.
Temperature
Kudzu root powder is a type of starch, and starch has different coagulation states at different temperatures. When the brewing temperature is low, the kudzu root powder does not easily coagulate, resulting in a thin and non-viscous consistency, thus not becoming a paste. It is generally recommended to use water above 90 degrees Celsius when brewing kudzu root powder for the second time.
Amount of Water
Kudzu root powder requires two rounds of brewing - the first round with warm water for pre-dissolving, and the second round with boiling water for brewing. If too much water is used during the brewing process, the kudzu root powder may not form a paste. It is recommended to use about 100 milliliters of water for 15 grams of kudzu root powder. The amount of water can be adjusted according to personal taste, but excessive water is not recommended.
Can Kudzu Root Powder That Didn't Become a Paste be Consumed
It depends on the situation.
Situation 1:
If the kudzu root powder is simply not mixed into a paste but has already been cooked, it can still be consumed. However, the texture may be less desirable.
Situation 2:
If the kudzu root powder has not formed a paste because it was not properly cooked (e.g. still contains granular particles), it is not recommended to consume. On one hand, if the purchased kudzu root powder was not properly sterilized, consuming uncooked kudzu root powder may cause digestive reactions such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal discomfort. On the other hand, uncooked kudzu root powder cannot fully release its medicinal properties as the gastrointestinal system cannot fully absorb them, resulting in reduced effectiveness.
What to Do If Kudzu Root Powder Brewing Fails
If the kudzu root powder brewing fails, here are a few suggestions.
1. Pour the failed kudzu root powder into a pot and cook it again while stirring until the kudzu root powder is fully cooked.
2. Put the kudzu root powder into a microwave on high heat for about two minutes.
3. If the above methods do not work, it is recommended to start over and brew a new cup.
What to Note When Consuming Kudzu Root Powder
1. Avoid Consuming on an Empty Stomach
When consuming kudzu root powder, avoid consuming it on an empty stomach. Kudzu root powder has a cooling nature and consuming it on an empty stomach may irritate the intestines and stomach, causing discomfort such as bloating, loose stools, and diarrhea.
2. Do Not Consume Excessive Amounts
When consuming kudzu root powder, avoid consuming excessive amounts. As kudzu root powder has a cooling nature, consuming too much may irritate the intestines and stomach, causing discomfort and being detrimental to overall health.
3. Use Caution if You Have Qi Deficiency and Cold Stomach
Kudzu root powder has a cooling nature. If you have qi deficiency and a cold stomach, consuming kudzu root powder may irritate the intestines and stomach, potentially exacerbating symptoms such as loose stools, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
