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9 Delicious uses of the Yacon Plant (Tasty Sugar Free Chocolate is just one of them)
Imagine discovering a plant that not only tastes deliciously sweet but also comes with remarkable health benefits.
That’s exactly what you get with yacon, a remarkable root vegetable native to the Andean regions of South America.

Often compared to sweet potatoes or jicama in appearance, yacon has been used for centuries in Peru for its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties.
Some of you may already know that at Mr Popple’s Chocolate, we were pioneers in using yacon syrup to sweeten our sugar-free dark chocolate bars. The naturally sweet, caramel-like flavour of yacon syrup perfectly complements our raw cacao, creating a uniquely delicious chocolate experience without the sugar spikes.
But did you know that yacon’s versatility extends far beyond chocolate making? This remarkable Peruvian root vegetable has a multitude of uses that might surprise you. From sweet treats to savoury dishes, yacon’s adaptability makes it a fascinating ingredient that deserves more recognition in the culinary world.
Let’s explore nine delightful ways to incorporate this amazing plant into your life. Whether you’re looking for sugar-free alternatives, gut-healthy foods, or simply want to experiment with new flavours, yacon has something to offer everyone.
1. Yacon Syrup: Nature’s Low-GI Sweetener
At the forefront of yacon’s versatility is its syrup form. With a remarkably low glycemic index of just 1, yacon syrup is revolutionising the way we think about sweeteners .

This dark golden elixir offers a caramel-like sweetness that’s perfect for:
- Sweetening hot beverages
- Adding to smoothies
- Drizzling over porridge
- Creating sugar-free desserts
What makes yacon syrup truly special is its ability to sweeten without causing blood sugar spikes, making it an excellent choice for those managing diabetes or watching their sugar intake.
2. Yacon Chips: A Healthy Snacking Alternative
When thinly sliced and dehydrated, yacon transforms into crispy, naturally sweet chips that make for a perfect healthy snack.

These chips offer:
- A satisfying crunch
- Natural sweetness
- High fibre content
- Prebiotic benefits
They’re particularly appealing to those seeking alternatives to traditional potato chips while still wanting that satisfying crunch.
3. Yacon Mock “Applesauce”
One of the most creative uses of yacon is in making a delicious alternative to applesauce.

This versatile condiment can be used:
- As a spread on toast
- In baking as a fat replacer
- As a natural sweetener in recipes
- As a topping for porridge or yoghurt
The natural sweetness and apple-like texture of yacon makes it perfect for this application.
4. Yacon Flour
When dried and ground, yacon can be transformed into a nutrient-rich flour.

This versatile ingredient can be used in:
- Gluten-free baking
- Thickening sauces
- Creating sugar-free treats
- Adding fibre to smoothies
5. Yacon Vinegar
Similar to apple cider vinegar, yacon vinegar offers a unique flavour profile and potential health benefits.

Use it in:
Salad dressings
- Marinades
- Pickling vegetables
- Health tonics
6. Yacon Tea
The leaves of the yacon plant can be dried and used to make a healthful tea.

This beverage offers:
- Antioxidant properties
- A naturally sweet taste
- Potential digestive benefits
- A caffeine-free alternative to traditional teas
7. Yacon Pineapple Slaw
For a refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, yacon can be shredded and combined with pineapple and peppers.
This unique dish offers:
- A crisp, refreshing texture
- Natural sweetness
- High nutritional value
- A unique twist on a classic side dish
8. Yacon Soup

When cooked, yacon adds a subtle sweetness and unique texture to soups.
This warming dish can be:
- Creamed for a smooth texture
- Combined with other root vegetables
- Seasoned with herbs and spices
- Served hot or chilled
9. Sugar-Free Chocolate
Perhaps one of the most exciting applications of yacon is in creating delicious sugar-free chocolate.
At Mr Popple’s Chocolate, we were the first UK company to use yacon syrup in chocolate making. The syrup’s natural caramel-like sweetness perfectly complements the complex flavours of raw cacao, creating a truly unique chocolate experience that’s both delicious and diabetic-friendly.

Why Our Yacon-Sweetened Chocolate Stands Apart
Let’s explore five compelling benefits that make our yacon-sweetened chocolate superior to alternatives:
i) Exceptionally Low Glycemic Impact
When it comes to blood sugar management, our yacon-sweetened chocolate is in a league of its own. With yacon syrup’s remarkably low glycemic index of just 1, it offers:
- Significantly lower impact than regular sugar (GI: 65)
- Better glycemic control than coconut sugar (GI: 54)
- A natural alternative to artificial sweeteners that often come with unwanted side effects
This makes our chocolate perfect for those watching their blood sugar levels or following specific dietary protocols.
ii) Prebiotic Powers for Gut Health
Unlike other sweeteners that merely add sweetness, yacon syrup brings additional health benefits to our chocolate:
- Rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS) that act as prebiotics
- Supports and nourishes beneficial gut bacteria
- Enhances digestive health naturally
- Contributes to overall immune system function
This unique property sets our chocolate apart from bars sweetened with regular sugar, artificial sweeteners, or even other natural alternatives.
iii) Natural Caramel-Like Flavour Enhancement
The magic of yacon syrup lies in how it complements our raw cacao:
- Offers a subtle, caramel-like sweetness
- Avoids the bitter aftertaste often associated with stevia
- More refined than coconut sugar’s strong molasses notes
- Allows the complex flavours of our raw cacao to shine through
This harmonious flavour profile creates a sugar free chocolate experience that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.
iv) Significantly Lower Total Sugar Content
Our commitment to healthier chocolate is reflected in the numbers:
- Just 9.5g sugar per 100g in our yacon-sweetened bars – and remember, those 9.5g aren’t even absorbed into your blood stream
- Considerably less than typical dark chocolate bars (30-50g sugar per 100g)
- No digestive discomfort common with sugar alcohols
- Sweetness primarily from FOS rather than simple sugars
This makes our chocolate a truly guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on taste.
v) Clean Label & Sustainability Credentials
Our use of yacon syrup aligns perfectly with our commitment to ethical and sustainable practices:
- Sustainably grown in Peru
- Free from artificial ingredients
- No sugar alcohols or controversial sweeteners
This commitment to clean, sustainable ingredients makes our chocolate not just better for you, but better for the planet too.
Experience the Difference
When you choose our yacon-sweetened chocolate, you’re not just selecting a healthier alternative to sugar-laden chocolate. You’re embracing a revolutionary approach to sweet treats that supports your well-being while delivering an exceptional taste experience.
Whether you’re managing diabetes, following a low-sugar lifestyle, or simply seeking a healthier chocolate option, our yacon-sweetened bars offer a delicious solution that doesn’t compromise on flavour or ethics.
Shop our range of yacon-sweetened chocolate bars

Conclusion
From sweet treats to savoury dishes, yacon proves itself to be an incredibly versatile ingredient that can enhance both the flavour and nutritional value of various foods.
Whether you’re looking to reduce your sugar intake, support your gut health, or simply explore new flavours, yacon offers numerous delicious possibilities.
FAQs
Q: What does yacon taste like?
A: Fresh yacon has a crisp texture and sweet taste similar to apples or pears, while yacon syrup has a caramel-like sweetness.
Q: Is yacon safe for diabetics?
A: Yes, with its extremely low glycemic index of 1, yacon is generally considered safe for diabetics. However, always consult with your healthcare provider.
Q: Where can I buy yacon products?
A: Yacon products can be found in health food stores, specialty markets, and online retailers. For yacon-sweetened chocolate, visit our sugar-free chocolate collection.
Q: How should I store yacon products?
A: Store fresh yacon in a cool, dry place. Yacon syrup should be refrigerated after opening, while dried products like flour can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q: Can I grow yacon at home?
A: Yes, yacon can be grown in temperate climates with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight, though it requires a long growing season.