Explore An Ingredient: Radishes & FODMAPs
This Explore an Ingredient entry covers several kinds of radishes. Many recipes and traditions suggest that radishes be eaten raw, but they are also cooked on occasion, an example of which you can see in our Low FODMAP Sautéed Radishes.
Red Radishes Contain No FODMAPs
Red radishes (Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus), have been lab tested by both Monash University and FODMAP Friendly.
Monash states that they contain no FODMAPs, while FODMAP Friendly gives them a “Pass” at 2 radishes or 40 g.
About White Daikon
Monash has lab tested white daikon radishes and they are low FODMAP in amounts of ½ cup or 75 g.
Other Radishes
Purple daikon and watermelon radishes have not been lab tested by Monash as of Spring 2020. We find that we tolerate them very well. Please read our article, What If A Food has Not Been Lab Tested? for more information. You could Challenge yourself with these radishes to assess your own tolerance.
FODMAP Friendly lab tested watermelon radish and says they are low FODMAP at a 150g serve (about 3 medium watermelon radish).
You might also want to read What Is A Low FODMAP Serving Size?
Taste & Texture Of Radishes
All radishes are crisp and crunchy, when at their freshest best. Some have more of a peppery bite than others. Some are quite mild. This can vary variety to variety but can also vary from one batch to the next, depending on growing conditions.
How to Buy
All radishes should be firm, heavy for their size and never spongy. All will most likely have their root end intact and some will also have their leaves attached. Both of these go a long way to ensuring a fresher bunch of radishes.
If the greens are attached, they should be perky and green with no yellowing or wilting.
How to Store
Store radishes in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in your produce drawer.
How to Prep
Scrub clean under cool water, as they may have dirt attached. Trim greens away (and discard, since we do not know FODMAP content). Trim the root end close to the radish itself. Time to eat!
How to Eat
Radishes are great raw. A classic French approach is to serve peppery red radishes with fresh butter and salt. Might seem odd but try it.
They also work well on any crudité platter you might be preparing. Or use to dip into hummus.
We have a recipe for sautéed radishes that is super simple. You can roast them too, like other root vegetables.
Radish leaves are cooked and enjoyed in some cultures, but we do not know their FODMAP content at this time.
Radish Recipes
We have many low FODMAP radishes recipes for you, including:
