Jerusalem Artichoke (aka sunchokes)

Helianthus tuberose

Origin: dry tropics of North America

Plant: Sept – Dec

Harvest: May, when the plants have totally died down.

Can be left in the ground or harvested and stored in moist sawdust in styrene boxes with lids. Jerusalem artichokes can be eaten raw, grated into salads or roasted along with other vegetables; takes no time to cook and should not be overdone. Safe food for diabetics (it contains inulin). Prebiotic – stimulates the lower bowel to produce the bacteria bifidus. Keep a small portion of the best tubers for replanting.