Photo by: Chris Kilham © 2010
Fresh Maca in a Row
Maca is an annual plant in the mustard family which grows in the highlands of Peru, and is consumed extensively by the people of that region. Maca is one of only two food crops (the other potato) which grow at high altitudes in the Junin plateau, ranging from 10,000 - 15,000 feet. The root of the plant, which resembles a turnip, is harvested and dried. The root is then used in a porridge called mazzamora, in cookies, baked goods, syrups, juices, blender drinks and liquors.