Fitness and Health

Casabe is a traditional Caribbean flatbread made from pounded cassava root. Although little heard of elsewhere, it has enjoyed a long and distinguished history. However, as its health benefits become apparent, it is likely to enjoy more widespread appreciation.

The refining process effectively removes most of the starch from the root. All that remains is wholesome fiber and nourishing complex carbohydrates. Nothing is added to the bread. It is devoid of sugar, salt, fat and gluten. Though it has wonderful keeping qualities, it is free also from preservatives. As a high fiber snack, it can help to maintain healthy digestion.

Cassava bread is a bonus for those who are struggling to follow strict diets. Those with gluten intolerance will appreciate this alternative to wheat based products. It can also be happily incorporated into low fat, low carbohydrate diets. People searching for suitable HCG snacks should also enjoy this low calorie flatbread.

It is a food which can be enjoyed almost any time and any place. The smaller bite-sized crackers can be packed into lunch boxes, used as dippers at a finger food buffet, or eaten on the go as a healthy replacement for potato chips. The impressive larger rounds can form the basis of, or supplement, a main meal.

In order not to compromise the health benefits, the bread should only be paired with other healthy food stuffs. Fortunately, there is no shortage of appealing recipes for nutritious spreads and dips. Judicious use of garlic, freshly squeezed lemons and limes, generous handfuls of herbs and spices can transform snacks into a gourmet experience.

Dips made from vegetable purees make an excellent partner for the bread. Roasting vegetables prior to processing will bring out the richness of flavors. Mashed beans and pulses can also form the basis of a great dip. The small crackers are ideal for scooping up salsa made from finely chopped onions, chili and tomato.

Those in need of comfort food can dip the bread into a large bowl of hot soup while they wait for it to cool. It is also perfect for mopping up the residue of a hearty stew. For a warm snack, the bread may be baked in the oven topped with a medley of vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini and capsicum.

With so many positive attributes to boast of, Casabe is likely to find its way onto the shopping lists of the health conscious. It is versatile, convenient and forms the basis of many easily prepared, wholesome dishes. It will also be a useful standby that can be kept in the pantry for many months.