A versatile tuber, easy to grow and easy to eat

Jerusalem artichokes are low maintenance and nutritious, writes Kitty Scully.

Jerusalem artichokes are now in season and are such a tremendously hardy tuber, that they survive in the ground all winter and can be chiselled out of frosted soil to make a delicious meal. Despite their name, Jerusalem artichokes are not artichokes and they don’t come from Jerusalem.

These small knobbly tubers are considered by some as food fit only as animal fodder. However, it could be argued that these timely tubers have piles of potential and make an inexpensive, tasty and nutritious addition to any meal — plus, they’re local and seasonal.