Chinese Artichokes / Crosnes

Organically grown at KoruKai Herb Farm, New Zealand, without the use of pesticides, herbicides, or other agrochemicals.

Chinese Artichokes, also known as Crosnes, are a fascinating perennial vegetable from the mint family, grown for their distinctive spiralled white tubers. Although still relatively uncommon in New Zealand, they have long been considered a gourmet delicacy in Europe and Asia, where they are prized for their unique texture, delicate flavour, and ease of growing.

The unusual tubers resemble tiny white grubs, but don't let their appearance fool you—they are absolutely delicious. When eaten fresh, they are crisp, juicy, and slightly sweet, much like water chestnuts. Lightly sautéed or stir-fried, they become tender and creamy with a mild nutty flavour somewhere between potato, kūmara, and Jerusalem artichoke.

In France, where they are known as Crosnes, they are traditionally braised in butter with fresh herbs—a wonderfully simple dish that allows their delic...