Yacon ground pear

Properties

Yacon has very few calories. On the other hand, it contains a lot of insulin, which makes it particularly suitable for people with diabetes.

Scientific and botanical name

Polymnia sonchifolia (compositae family). Other names: earth pear, yacon, aricoma, jíquima, jiquimilla. It is a tuberous perennial plant, a close relative of sunflower and Jerusalem artichoke. Its stems are very tall and very robust (about 1.5 meters high).

Origin & Culture

Originally from America in the Andes (Peru), the yacon has been known for centuries by the Incas for its virtues. Imported into France during the 19th century, it grows very well in our latitudes, even if it requires a lot of space.

Preparation advice

Eaten raw or cooked. Cooked, the yacon is cooked like a potato. You can also make a syrup. It looks like a nice caramel and can be used like honey or maple syrup. The Japanese also use the dried leaves of the ground pear to make tea.

Home preservation

The yacon can be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from light.