Water Chestnuts Nutrition Facts
How many calories are in Water Chestnuts?
Water Chestnuts has 97 calories per 100g.
Water chestnuts are aquatic tuber vegetables (not nuts) prized for their crisp, slightly sweet flesh that stays crunchy even after cooking. A staple in Chinese cuisine, they add texture contrast to stir-fries and fillings.
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving
Health Benefits
- ✓High potassium content (12% DV)
- ✓Unique ability to stay crisp when cooked
- ✓Good source of copper for enzyme function
- ✓Contains resistant starch for gut health
- ✓Low fat, moderate carbohydrate energy source
Best For
Storage
Canned water chestnuts keep years unopened; once opened, refrigerate in water for up to 1 week. Fresh water chestnuts keep refrigerated in a paper bag for 2 weeks. Peel just before using to prevent browning.
Serving Sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do water chestnuts stay crunchy when cooked?
Water chestnuts contain a unique cell structure and high levels of ferulic acid that cross-link with cell walls, keeping them rigid even at high temperatures. This is why they stay crisp in stir-fries, soups, and even after canning - a property few vegetables share.
Are water chestnuts actually chestnuts?
No, water chestnuts are not nuts at all - they're aquatic tubers (corms) from a sedge plant grown in muddy water, like rice paddies. Tree chestnuts are entirely different. Water chestnuts are safe for people with tree nut allergies.
Fresh vs canned water chestnuts - is there a big difference?
Yes! Fresh water chestnuts are sweeter, juicier, and crunchier with a mild coconut-like flavor. Canned are more mild and slightly softer but still crisp. Fresh are harder to find and require peeling. For most recipes, canned work fine; for special dishes or raw eating, seek fresh.
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