Japanese "yams"
James Waddick (Mon, 14 Jul 2008 21:21:00 PDT)
Dear Tsuh Yang,
I think Diane gave a good answer.
This is a fascinating subject of identifying ethnic food
items. I often go to local markets and search out the ID for a
variety of 'geophytes' from Yautia (Xanthosma,a tuberous Aroid) to
Yams (Dioscorea) and even some odd alliums such as Chinerse pickled
leeks (not related to Western Leeks). And my current mystery 'purple
flesh yams, actually a sweet potato which is of course a morning
glory (Ipomea) .
The Oxford Book of EdiblePlants is a constant reference, but
bogs down at the truly exotic.
Took me years to figure out what Sichuan Vegetable really is !
And then there's the Gansu (China) edible Lilies (Lilium
davidii) and a host of other bulbous and tuberous edibles.
Another side of bulb fascination.
Best JIm W.
this is a bit off-topic, since we are veering into cuisine now, but
i was wondering if anyone knows what species are the following
japanese edible yams: yama-imo and tororo. i think these are both
Dioscoreas, is that correct? has anyone tasted them?
--
Dr. James W. Waddick
8871 NW Brostrom Rd.
Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711
USA
Ph. 816-746-1949
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