General Information
Crosne, also called Chinese artichoke, Japanese artichoke, knotroot and Chorogi is an Asian member of the mint family grown for its unusually shaped edible tubers. In Japan Chorogi and also referred to as a Chinese Artichoke where it grows wild in Northern China. The word chorogi means “longevity” and is considered to be a sign of good luck.
Crosnes can be described as appearing similar to a small grub or misshapen pearls. Usually about two inches or more in length and about one-half inch or less in diameter, Crosnes have a crunchy texture and earthy flavor, similar to a Jerusalem artichoke in taste. Crosnes offer a vague, nutty sweetness and juiciness. The plant’s hairy felt-like leaves and square stems resemble those of the mint family.
Varied uses include sliced raw and used in salads, pickled, steamed or in stir-frys. Tubers can also be dipped in tempura batter and fried. Crosnes are never peeled.
History
They were introduced to Europe in the 1880s (first cultivated in France near Crosne, hence the name) and enjoyed popularity until the 1920s. Crosnes du Japon was the given name by Paillieux (of Paillieux and Bois, Le Potager d’un curieux, 1882). Crosnes are still cultivated in Europe and on a limited basis in the United States. Chefs who have used crosnes grown in both countries are said to prefer the flavor of United States product, perhaps due to the richer soil (in France they are grown in sand).
