What is Palmini? | Low Carb Hearts of Palm Pasta

What is Palmini? How is it made? What does it taste like? In this article I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about Palmini and where to buy it!

What is Palmini?

Palmini is a delicious pasta alternative made from the hearts of palm, a type of vegetable sourced from palm trees!

Hearts of palm are the tender inner cores of specific palm trees, primarily the Açaí palm (Euterpe oleracea) native to South America, including countries like Brazil, Equador, and Colombia.

Hearts of palm have been consumed for centuries by indigenous communities in these regions.

Palmini hearts of palm pasta and rice are low carb, keto, gluten-free, and nutrient-rich! The perfect substitute for traditional pasta if you’re looking to eat healthier and/or follow a low carb diet. 

You can enjoy Palmini pasta with regular pasta sauce or a variety of dishes like alfredo, stir fry, lasagna, and even ramen! A great way to enjoy Palmini rice is making a yummy shrimp or chicken fried rice.

Palmini pasta and rice are pre-cooked, so they just need to be warmed in your favorite sauce or sautéed for about 5-10 minutes. So easy!

What does Palmini taste like?

Since Palmini pasta has a neutral and virtually undetectable flavor, it’s perfect for making a wide variety of dishes and can be used in many different cuisines. It also has a pleasant noodle-like texture that ensures that your recipes come out both delicious and palatable! 

How is Palmini made?

The journey from palm trees to Palmini pasta involves a meticulous process that ensures the preservation of the unique qualities of hearts of palm while creating a pasta-like product. 

The hearts of palm are harvested, cleaned, and cut into thin, noodle-like strands. These strands are then cooked to produce a softer texture and packaged, ready to be incorporated into a whatever culinary creations you can imagine! Really the possibilities are endless.

Palmini comes in small plastic packages and in cans ready to use in a wide variety of dishes!

The company is also committed to an environmentally sustainable way of farming. They use a multi-stem system to ensure that just a portion of the tree is harvested and the tree is left to produce for years to come. 

The Palmini Secret

Okay, not so secret because it’s right on the back of the package in the basic directions. But the trick to getting the best results with these noodles is to make sure to drain Palmini and rinse it really well to remove any flavor. 

Rinsing it first thing with plenty of water will give you the perfect neutral product without any detectable flavor once combined with your favorite ingredients. If you forget to rinse, they will still taste like hearts of palm. 

To be honest, this is not the worst thing as hearts of palm are really a delicious flavor. But for use as a pasta substitute then you generally want to get rid of that flavor and start with a clean palate. Using Palmini pasta the proper way will give you the best results in your recipes!

Secret #2 – You can also soak drained Palmini in milk for 45 minutes to neutralize the flavor even more! 

The Origin of Palmini

Palmini was created by Alfonso Tejada, an entrepreneur based in Miami, Florida and founder of OA Foods. He developed Palmini as a pasta alternative using hearts of palm, inspired by his desire to find a healthier and low-carb option for his own diet.

Alfonso Tejada founded his company, Tejada USA Inc., which produces and markets Palmini.

While the exact date of invention might not be widely documented, Palmini gained prominence and started gaining attention in the market around 2016. Since then, it has become increasingly popular as a pasta substitute, particularly among individuals following low-carb, gluten-free, and keto diets.

Alfonso Tejada’s innovation with Palmini has provided a creative solution for individuals seeking to make healthier food choices while still enjoying the taste and texture of traditional pasta dishes.

The invention of Palmini represents a significant contribution to the culinary world, offering an innovative and nutritious alternative to conventional pasta.

Is Palmini healthy?

Palmini stands out as a notable alternative to traditional pasta due to its impressive nutritional profile. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and calories, making it an ideal choice for those following low carb or ketogenic diets. 

Additionally, Palmini is gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Here’s a snapshot of Palmini’s nutritional content (per 1-cup serving):

• Calories: 20
• Carbohydrates: 4 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 2 grams

Since Palmini comes from a natural plant, it is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, and iron, which are integral for maintaining overall health and vitality.

This nutritious plant pasta stands out among its competitors in the low calorie/low carb/gluten free pasta realm because it really packs a nutritious punch! 

Culinary Versatility

One of Palmini’s most appealing attributes is its versatility in the kitchen. It serves as a canvas for a multitude of flavors and cuisines, allowing individuals to explore their culinary creativity while maintaining a health-conscious approach. 

Palmini can be seamlessly integrated into various dishes, such as stir-fries, casseroles, soups, and salads, adding texture and substance without the heaviness and carbs of traditional pasta.

Palmini can be prepared using similar techniques as regular pasta. Just like the real thing, it can be sautéed, baked, stir-fried, air-fried, and even boiled, adapting effortlessly to a diverse array of recipes. 

Its mild flavor profile ensures that it complements both robust and delicate sauces, further enhancing its potential for culinary exploration.

Health Benefits of Palmini

1. Low Carbohydrate Option: Palmini is an excellent choice for individuals looking to manage their carbohydrate intake. Its minimal carb content can support weight management and help stabilize blood sugar levels.
2. Dietary Fiber: The fiber content in Palmini noodles can promote digestive health, aids in satiety, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, making it a valuable component of a balanced diet. Since Palmini is 90% water, this combination of water and fiber makes it very filling. 
3. Heart Health: Palmini’s potassium content can support heart health by assisting in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. It is also low in saturated fat. 
4. Weight Management: Palmini’s low-calorie nature, combined with its high fiber content, can contribute to weight management goals by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. You can eat a big bowl of it and not have to worry about the calories! This is great for those who love large portions but are trying to lose weight.
5. Gluten Free: For individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, Palmini is the ideal gluten-free pasta that’s safe and enjoyable!

Kinds of Palmini to buy

• Linguine – the most common and most popular! Available in pouches and cans.
• Angel Hair
• Lasagna
• Rice
• Mashed (like mashed potatoes! But it’s just made with hearts of palm, natural sea salt, and citric acid!)
  • Classic Mashed
  • Roasted Garlic Mashed
  • Butter & Herb Mashed 
  • Cheddar & Jalapeno Mashed (YUM!!!)
• Spanish Rice
• Fried Rice

Where to buy Palmini

Palmini is available for purchase through various channels, both online and in grocery stores across the United States. 

1. Official Website: The official Palmini website (www.eatpalmini.com) is a direct source for purchasing Palmini products. You can browse their selection, choose different varieties (such as Linguine, Lasagna, or Angel Hair), and place your order online with a low delivery fee.
2. Online Retailers: Palmini is often available for purchase on popular online retail platforms, such as Amazon, Walmart, and Thrive Market. These platforms may offer a range of Palmini products and packaging options and often offer free shipping!
3. Health Food Stores: Some health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and organic markets may carry Palmini on their shelves. It’s a good idea to check with your local health grocery store to see if they stock Palmini before purchasing online. We love supporting small, local businesses!
4. Supermarkets: Depending on your location, certain supermarkets may carry Palmini in their pasta or specialty food sections. Larger chain stores or those with a focus on healthy and alternative products might be more likely to have Palmini in stock. Click here for their “store finder”.
   • Kroger
   • Sprouts
   • Whole Foods
   • Safeway
   • Publix
   • Winn Dixie
   • Wegmans
   • Ralphs
   • Walmart
   • Aldi
   • Bi-Lo
5. Online Specialty Retailers: There are also specialty online retailers that focus on offering health-conscious and unique food products. These platforms might carry Palmini as part of their inventory.
6. Local Farmers’ Markets: In some cases, Palmini or similar products might be available at local farmers’ markets or artisanal food markets.

Recipes for Palmini

While you don’t have to use recipe when enjoying Palmini (it is great simply heated with your choice of sauce!), there are some amazing Palmini recipes out there that you should definitely try!

• Dairy Free Cauliflower Alfredo with Palmini
• Low Carb Chicken Ramen 
• Keto Chicken Alfredo with Palmini Noodles (one of my favorite sauces!)
• Hearts of Palm Noodle Peanut Stir Fry
• Low Carb Palmini Carbonara 
• Hearts of Palm Pasta Salad (an amazing, fresh summer side dish!)

Palmini on Shark Tank

Palmini’s appearance on the popular television show “Shark Tank” marked a significant moment in the product’s journey and contributed to its increased visibility and success.

“Shark Tank” is a reality TV show where entrepreneurs present their business ideas to a panel of potential investors (sharks) in the hopes of securing funding and mentorship to help their businesses grow.

Palmini’s founder, Alfonso Tejada, pitched the product on an episode of “Shark Tank,” which originally aired on October 27, 2019, during the show’s eleventh season.

He pitched to sharks Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Daymond John, Bethenny Frankel, and Robert Herjavec.

Tejada shared his vision for Palmini as a healthier pasta alternative made from hearts of palm, highlighting its nutritional benefits and versatility in the kitchen.

During the presentation, Alfonso Tejada explained the process of creating Palmini and its suitability for various dietary preferences, including low-carb, gluten-free, and keto diets.

He also emphasized the growing demand for healthier food options and the potential market for Palmini as a unique and innovative product.

The sharks were intrigued by the concept of Palmini and its potential to disrupt the pasta industry. After a brutal round of questions and negotiations, Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban offered a deal to Alfonso Tejada.

Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner invested $300,000 for 25% equity in Palmini, valuing the company at $3 million.

The “Shark Tank” episode provided Palmini with a valuable platform for exposure and publicity. The investment from Mark Cuban and Lori Greiner not only infused capital into the business but also brought the expertise and guidance of two successful entrepreneurs. 

This partnership helped Palmini expand its reach, enhance its production capabilities, and further establish its presence in the market.

Palmini’s success story on “Shark Tank” is a testament to the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit behind the product. It highlights the power of a compelling idea, a strong pitch, and the potential for transformative partnerships to elevate a business to new heights. 

The episode’s airing on national television brought Palmini to the attention of a wider audience, contributing to its growth and recognition as a notable pasta alternative.

Conclusion

Palmini has emerged as a star player in the realm of pasta alternatives, captivating the culinary world with its unique attributes and health benefits.

Derived from hearts of palm, this innovative product combines a tender texture with an impressive nutritional profile, making it an attractive option for health-conscious individuals seeking to diversify their meals.

Whether you’re aiming to reduce carbohydrates, increase fiber intake, or explore new culinary options, Palmini provides a versatile and flavorful product to enhance your dietary journey while embracing the joy of eating well.

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