Author: Archana
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 10: Lesser Yam
You know by now that it can be a bit tricky to distinguish between local varieties and botanical names when it comes to tuber crops. Take Lesser Yam, for instance; it’s all part of the Dioscoreaceae family, with Dioscorea esculenta being the most commonly recognized member. There’s a whole world of local types out there,…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 9: Larger Yam
Let’s dive into the world of larger/greater yams! The superstar of the yam family is definitely Dioscorea alata, which you might know as greater yam, larger yam, water yam, purple yam, or ube. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Within the Dioscorea genus, we’ve got a whole lineup of economically important species to…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 8: Chinese Potato
I can’t stress enough that koorkka isn’t just a vegetable; it’s a whole vibe for so many of us, including me! It’s funny how people have this love-hate relationship with this little veggie. Some can’t stand it, while others adore it but dread the cleaning. And then there are those who love it so much…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 7: Elephant Foot Yam
This series explores lesser-known tuber crops, starting with tapioca and featuring various yam types. The author recounts a childhood disdain for elephant yam, later developing a craving for it in Bangalore due to its unique taste and aroma, attributed to Kerala’s soil. Cultural dishes using yams highlight their culinary versatility.
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 6 : Colocasia/Taro & Xanthosoma/Tannia
This series focuses on the complex naming and local varieties of ‘Chemb’ in Malayalam, particularly Colocasia esculenta and Xanthosoma sagittifolium. Highlighting their culinary uses and health benefits, the text underscores their significance in Indian cuisine and culture, especially in Kerala.
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 5: Edible Canna
Edible canna, also known as achira, is a resilient tuber cultivated since ancient times in South and Central America, particularly by the Incas. Its starchy root can withstand poor soils and floods, making it ideal during food scarcity. Interest in this climate-resilient crop is increasing among modern farmers and foragers.
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 4: Arrowroot
The content discusses the White Arrowroot plant (Maranta arundinacea) and its uses, including its historical medicinal significance in wound healing and its edible starch’s applications in cooking and cosmetics. It also highlights its nutritional benefits and the variety of arrowroot species and their culinary uses, particularly in South Asia.
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 3: Winged beans
The winged bean is prized as a multi-purpose crop due to its edible pods, flowers, seeds, leaves, and tuberous roots, which are all highly nutritious. Known as a “superfood” in many parts of the world, it plays an important role in promoting food security and sustainable agriculture in tropical and subtropical regions. Its distinctive four-angled pods and…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 2: Sweet Potato
After the first tuber of this series – Tapioca, here comes the Sweet Potato! The modest sweet potato has journeyed across continents, sustained civilizations, and even ignited historical discussions. Coming from Central and South America, it was grown more than 5,000 years ago by the ancient civilizations of Peru and Mexico. When Christopher Columbus reached…
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Rooted in Nutrition Series 1: Cassava
Growing up in Kerala, I’ve been surrounded by the rich abundance of tuber vegetables. From backyard gardens to the local markets, tubers were a staple part of our meals. Yet, when I talk to friends outside Kerala, many assume that cassava (kappa) is the only tuber we have. But the truth is, Kerala offers a…
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Lost in Translation: The Many Names and Mysteries of Ponnanganni or Honagone
Though the saying goes, “What’s in a name?”, I often find myself saying that names are highly subjective, especially when it comes to plants. Many local/common names overlap between different species, sparking endless confusion. The debate over which is the “real Ponnanganni”(Tamizh) or “Honagone”(Kannada) only gains more momentum and heat in gardening groups, turning a…
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Talinum fruticosum – Ceylon Spinach
This is one of the cheeras (spinach in Malayalam) I remember growing abundantly where I was brought up. Whenever we had enough to make some delicious curries, we’d trim it so it could grow back stronger. I’ve always loved its pretty pink blossoms—they’re such a sweet sight! I also loved popping the seeds. They crack…
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MY LITTLE THOUGHTS LANE 