Elephant Foot Yam

Elephant foot yam(Suran), also known as Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, is a tropical tuberous root vegetable native to Southeast Asia. Here's a description and specifications for elephant foot yam:
Description:

• Appearance: Elephant foot yam has a large, bulbous underground tuber that resembles an elephant's foot, giving it its name. The tuber is covered with a thick, brownish-gray, rough outer skin.
• Size: The size of elephant foot yam tubers can vary, but they are typically large and heavy, weighing several kilograms each. They can grow up to 1 meter in length and 30 centimeters in diameter.
• Texture: The flesh of elephant foot yam is starchy and fibrous, with a crisp texture when raw. It softens and becomes creamy when cooked.
• Flavor: Elephant foot yam has a mild, slightly earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. It absorbs the flavors of spices and seasonings well when cooked.
• Aroma: When raw, elephant foot yam has a distinctive aroma that some describe as similar to taro or lotus root. The aroma diminishes when the yam is cooked.

Specifications for Culinary Use:

• Cleaning: Elephant foot yam should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or soil from the outer skin. It is typically peeled and washed under running water before cooking.
• Preparation: The tuber is often cut into slices or cubes before cooking. It can be boiled, steamed, fried, or added to soups, stews, and curries.
• Cooking Time: Elephant foot yam requires thorough cooking to soften its fibrous texture and remove any bitterness. It may take longer to cook compared to other root vegetables.
• Flavor Pairings: Elephant foot yam pairs well with spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. It is also commonly cooked with coconut milk, tamarind, curry leaves, and mustard seeds in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines.
• Nutritional Value: Elephant foot yam is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. It is low in calories and fat, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

• Elephant foot yam should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It can be kept at room temperature for several days or stored in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
• It is important to store elephant foot yam away from other fruits and vegetables to prevent them from absorbing its strong aroma.