Spiral cauliflower, sea asparagus, fern vegetables… are vegetables that are not only rare but also strange.

1. Octa root

This tuber was originally grown in South America. However, in the mid-1800s, oca was introduced to New Zealand and is now known as New Zealand yam. This tuber is quite rare in North America but in South America it is quite common. Oca is a rich food source of vitamin C, iron and potassium.

2. Bear’s root

Berries were originally grown in ancient Egypt. Nowadays, beetroot is popular in Spain. The tuber can be used to make delicious milk or vegetarian dishes.

3. Spiralized cauliflower

This is a cauliflower variety originating in Italy. Spiralized cauliflower, also known as romanesco, is rich in vitamin C.

4. Summer bulb tree

The bulb plant originates from the Mediterranean. The ancient Romans and Greeks used it as a very good tonic. This root provides a lot of calcium, iron and phosphorus.

5. Chrysanthemum tree

Chrysanthemum or scientifically known as sanchoke is a local vegetable in North America. It has a low starch concentration and can be used as a potato substitute.

6. Sea asparagus

Samphire is also known as sea asparagus because it grows in salt spray areas near the ocean. This is a very resilient vegetable, not many plants can grow in similar soil conditions. This vegetable tastes best when eaten with fish.

7. Rabbit ear cactus

Nopales or rabbit ear cacti are relatives of cacti. It can be eaten after peeling off all the thorns. Rabbit ear cacti are very popular in Mexico.

8. Dulse seaweed

Dulse is a type of seaweed that grows attached to kelp or rocks under sea water. This vegetable grows on the northern Atlantic and Pacific coasts. It has been a popular food in Iceland for centuries. Dulse seaweed can be used to make soups, sandwiches and salads. Dulse seaweed is rich in fiber, protein and iodine.

9. Young ferns

Fiddleheads or young ferns are young leaves of ferns that have not yet fully bloomed and are used to make boiled dishes or salads. This vegetable is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Furthermore, young ferns contain twice as many antioxidants as blueberries.