Chufa (earth almonds)

Chufa or earthen almond is a perennial herbaceous plant of the sedge family, which is characterized by the presence of edible small tubers on the roots. The plant is native to North African countries and the Mediterranean region, where the largest chufa plantations are still located.

Today, chufa (earthen almond) grows almost all over the world, although in each of the countries it is called differently. For example, in Italy and Germany, chufu is called earthen almond, in Portugal and Brazil the plant is called tuber grass, the inhabitants of North America call it reed nut, while the population of North Africa is used to calling chufu Zuluz nut.

Externally, the above-ground part of the plant is very similar to the sedge, and the urinated root of chufa (earthen almond) smells like valerian. In our lands, chufa is an annual that can bear fruit only occasionally, but in hot countries the plant can bloom and bear fruit in the second year of its life. The fruits of chufa (earthen almonds) are nuts that vary in both shape and color depending on the variety. But mainly the shape of the fruits is round (less often oval or ovoid), and the color is from yellow to brown.

The useful properties of chufa have been known to humans for a very long time, so the fruits of the plant are eaten not only raw, but also dried and boiled. However, it should be borne in mind that raw nuts are very hard, and therefore it is advisable to soak them before use.

For culinary purposes, miniature tubers of chufa are pre-fried, after which they are ground. In this form, they are used to prepare a coffee drink and cocoa. Based on the flour obtained from this plant, you can prepare delicious confectionery (cakes, cookies, halva). In addition, the fruits of chufa (earthen almonds) are often used to make healthy effervescent drinks - for example, in Spain they make a tasty soft cocktail of orshad.

The healing properties of chufa (earthen almonds) are preserved in very healthy, tasty and aromatic oil based on the fruits of this plant, which is distinguished by an attractive golden tone and resembles high-quality olive oil.

Benefits of chufa (earthen almonds)

The benefits of chufa (earthen almonds) for humans are contained in the nodules of this plant, which, in addition to fat, starch and sugar, also contains proteins, valuable resins, fiber, trace elements - phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium and a number of others. In addition, chufa (earthen almonds) acts as a source of vitamins - in particular, group B, therefore, it is recommended to use fruits to normalize the work of the nervous, digestive and cardiovascular systems.

However, despite the obvious human health benefits of chufa (earthen almonds), the likely harm of eating it is relevant for people who are overweight and have liver problems. This is due to the high calorie content of the plant fruits.