Digestive problems? Topinambour is the word, a taste between potato and artichoke.
Origin
The Jerusalem artichoke, Heliantus Tuberosos, belongs to the Compositeae family. The edible part is the tuber of this plant, while the flowers are very similar to sunflowers. Its origins are not certain. Its name descends from an Indian tribe in Brazil, where it is thought this tuber comes from. Now the common belief is that it appeared for the first time in North America and Canada, but it was introduced in Italy only in the XVI century and today in Europe it’s cultivated mainly in France and Belgium, even if it naturally grows in many areas, even in our country. According to the historical period and tradition it assumed many different names: American potato, Canadian potato, German turnip, American artichoke, cane truffle, bastard truffle, earth apple. Surely its particular shape and taste similar to potatoes and artichokes is something that stimulated the fantasies of many.
Cook it
Generally it is cooked like its tuber cousin, even if it can also be eaten raw in a salad. Cooked, it can be boiled, fried, or used to prepare pancakes of mash tuns. In Piedmont it is a true speciality: it is typical topinambour in bagna càuda, or as an ingredient to dunk in delicious fondue. But careful when you choose this product: it needs to be thick, the peel has to have a brown – purple color, with no cuts or dents. No doubt, the Jerusalem artichoke that our palates love the most is the pink one, with a long shape.
Did you know that?
Jerusalem artichoke is ideal for low calories diets, because it does not contain many calories, but at the same time it is recommended for older people, children and convalescents because of its energetic properties. It also contains many soluble fibers, like inulina, a magic potion that facilitates digestion and protects the intestinal flora. But there’s more….topinambour is perfect for people with celiac disease because it is gluten free! Full of potassium, it is good for the cardio circulatory system, and it is recommended also for your hair care!
