A rare and expensive taro in Japan, they are commonly used in Osechi Ryori (Japanese traditional New Year's food) to bring prosperity to a family in the coming year.
The Yatsugashira taro is an excellent source of potassium and is more nutritious compared to other varieties of taro. They contain more calories than other taros as result of its higher sugar content, however it is also richer in vitamin E, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus. A recent study also suggested that eating taros can help lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
Yatsugashira taros are a member of the Araceae family. Yatsugashira translates to eight heads, a namesake which is a result of its knobby resemblance of that of eight heads lumped together, said to be auspicious in Japanese culture to resemble fertility.
Yatsugashira taros are often cooked in the popular simmered Japanese dish known as Nimono. They are also commonly added to miso soups. Basically, just treat them like a satoimo/any other taro potato when you cook.
To store the taro wrap in newspaper without washing and keep in a cool dark place with good ventilation until ready to use.
Approximately 800g~ 1kg. So big it needs to be held with both hands. Depending on size, one or two pieces. It's basically the biggest potato you'll ever see.
通常の里芋より味が良いと言われています。ホクホクした味わいが普通の里芋とちょっと違うんです。
八つ頭は里芋と同じく「子孫繁栄」、そして頭がたくさん付いているような見た目から「人の頭になる＝出世するように」という縁起を担いでいます。
