The yacon, also known as the diabetic's potato, is a unique tuber.
It is crunchy, juicy, and has a sweet flavour reminiscent of pear or apple, often called ground apple or ground pear.
It is a natural prebiotic, recommended for diabetics as it is rich in oligosaccharides, slow-absorbing sugars released into the blood in small quantities. It controls blood glucose levels, stimulates insulin production in the pancreas, and helps reduce bad cholesterol.
The yacon is also a diet-friendly ally, as it creates a feeling of fullness and is low in calories.
Originally from the Andes mountain range, from Colombia to northern Argentina, passing through Bolivia and Ecuador, it has been consumed for thousands of years by the Incas.
It is sold in Andean markets as a fruit and should be consumed this way: raw and peeled, in salads, juices, or pulps.
The plants are relatives of the Jerusalem artichoke, sunflower, calendulas, and daisies, and they help control soil erosion.
They absorb a lot of water, hence the name yacon, derived from "yacún," which means water.
The production was small, we only have a few kilos for the most curious.
Tomas Lancastre
Jan 13, 2025
Yacon, the Andean Tuber
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