Shagbark hawkweed (Cyperus esculentus)

Other names: ground almonds, tiger nuts, chufa, gomi, shahor

An interesting plant from the chahor family, known by various names such as ground almond, tiger nut, chufa or gomi, is growing in popularity. This is the edible shahor (Cyperus Esculentus), a plant native to the Mediterranean region. This plant, which produces tiny nut-like tubers or almonds that are eaten for their nutritional content, is now almost worldwide and is used mainly in the food industry.

Tiger nuts are not only tasty but also very healthy. They are rich in fibre, minerals and vitamins and, thanks to their high content of unsaturated fatty acids, have beneficial effects on the whole organism. A variety of products are made from the tubers of the shahor. A very popular product is roasted tiger nuts, which are eaten as a savoury and sweet snack. They are also pressed into oil, which is mainly used in cooking for its distinctive taste and high content of unsaturated fatty acids. Tiger nuts are also widely used in gluten-free diets, as they can be used to make flour that is suitable for baking. However, the best-known product remains the Spanish drink horchata de chufa, which is made from ground and then squeezed tiger nuts. This refreshing drink is particularly popular during the hot summer months. They are also used in cosmetics, where their oil is used as a base for various creams, balms and body oils.