Also known as chorogi or Chinese artichokes, crosnes are tuber vegetables that have an appearance that is very similar to that of a large caterpillar. The body of the crosne root is somewhat knobby and dull white in color. Originating in Japan and China, the crosne was first cultivated in France during the latter part of the 19th century, and takes its name from the French village of Crosnes.

Like other types of tuber vegetables, the crosne root is the portion of the plant that is considered desirable for eating. When harvested, the tops are discarded and the root is cleaned thoroughly. Removing the outer skin of the tuber is traditionally accomplished by rubbing coarse salt along the surface of the vegetable. Some recipes call for cooking chorogi with the peel intact, however.

There are many different ways to prepare crosnes. One common approach is to slice the root and use the pieces in a stir-fry. It is also possible to cut the crosne into sections and deep-fry them in a manner similar to French-fried potatoes. The vegetable can also be peeled, quartered, and cooked with greens, much like the way that turnip greens and turnip roots are cooked together in the Deep South of the United States.

It is also possible to pickle crosnes in sweet or sour brine. This generally calls for cutting a single crosne into several elongated sections and preparing them in a manner that is similar to pickling cucumbers. The result is a tasty treat that works very well with sandwiches or as a quick snack.

Prior to the last few decades, chorogi was mainly found in France or various locations in Asia and the Orient. However, as many types of national cuisine have attracted increased attention in the United States and Canada, the crosne has become a staple in many small ethnic food markets in the two countries. As the demand has grown, some major supermarket chains have begun to sell Chinese artichokes alongside other tuber vegetables.

In recent years, crosnes have been successfully grown in the United States. The tuber grows best in most soil that is shaded most of the time, so there are several areas in the Southeastern United States that are ideal for the growing crosnes. Harvested during the winter months, the tubers keep well and can be an excellent substitute for people who must avoid potatoes as part of their diet.