Dioscorea bulbifera.
As the name in Portuguese suggests, this variety of yam has the shape of chicken gizzard. And as the English name implies, it grows hanging from a vine. It is rarely found in Brazil’s markets and fairs – the non-commercial production concentrates in the South, Southeast and North regions. Those who cultivate it for their own consumption can certainly enjoy the soft texture of the yam after it’s been cooked and mashed. It can replace bread for breakfast and goes well in stewed chicken and cpork dishes, soups, roasts and breads. Because it contains toxic elements, responsible for its bitter taste, it is not suitable to eat raw.
