3. Gardenerd Tip of the Month: Jerusalem Artichokes
Tubers and root crops are making their way from the garden to the table in time for Thanksgiving, but if you're bored with the same old potatoes or parsnips (though I can't imagine), try this underdog of the underground this season.
Jerusalem artichokes aren't technically artichokes at all. The plant is a member of the sunflower family, looks a lot like ginger root, tastes like a nutty potato, and can be grown with relative ease in most climates (although it has been said that they grow better in the upper 2/3rds of North America).
The tuber is planted in spring and harvested in fall/winter, so now is the time to add them to your diet, and save a few to plant in spring. A few suggestions for eating:
Roasted Jerusalem Artichokes with Chives
Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with Caramelized Onions
Jerusalem Artichoke and Arugula Salad with Parmesan
Stay tuned for another delicious way to prepare them next week on the Gardenerd Blog.
These suggestions come with a couple of warnings:
Eat in moderation, these guys can be tough on the digestive system. In fact, some people put an "F" in front of "Artichoke" - so start slow.
In some gardens, Jerusalem Artichokes can be considered invasive. Tubers can multiply from a small piece in the compost bin, and have been known to take over garden beds. Treat it like mint and plant in a confined space, or anywhere you don't mind having it take over. |
