Jerusalem Artichoke / Sunchokes Helianthus
tuberosus
Native to North America from Ontario and Saskatoon, south to Georgia
and Arkansas this vegetable is a relative of the sunflower. The
Jerusalem Artichoke is thought to have gotten it's name form the
corruption of Terneuzen, the place in Holland that introduced these
artichokes to England in 1617. The Jerusalem Artichoke has no botanical
relation to artichokes. Around 1605 in the Cape Cod area, the first
American settlers discovered the Native Americans growing and 10 years
latter the plants were brought to Europe where they quickly became
popular.
Jerusalem artichokes are irregularly shaped, fairly large, white or
purplish in color and have a thick skin. They have a nutty flavor
and are prepared in the same manner as potatoes. Jerusalem
artichokes can be eaten raw in salads, sautéed, boiled, steamed, baked,
deep fried, pureed, or marinated.
Season Available all year with the peak season, October
to March
Storage Store as you would potatoes in a cool dry
place
Nutrition 3 1/2 oz. serving = 10 calories, after
several months of storage up to 70 calories
1 lb. = 4 to 5 servings
Compatibility of Flavors and Condiments
Barbecued meats, egg dishes, onions, shallots, bell peppers