A street snack that has baffled botanists (atlasobscura.com)

Article summary

A street snack in India, known as Bhoochakara Gadda or Ram Kand, has been sold for decades, but its origin and identity remain unknown. Despite efforts by botanists and researchers, including DNA testing, the exact plant species has not been confirmed. The snack is described as a crunchy and juicy stem, often seasoned with salt, chili powder, and lime. Vendors claim it comes from a root, but experts suspect it may be from an agave plant.

Main themes

• botany
• street food
• mystery
• trade secrets
• academic research
• plant classification
• food safety

What commenters say

• The article's title is clickbait and the mystery is overhyped.
• The vendors' secrecy and inconsistent stories suggest they may be hiding something.
• The snack's identity is not a mystery, but rather an unclassified botanical specimen.
• The DNA analysis suggests a link to Agave sisalana, but the exact variety is still unknown.
• Some commenters believe the snack may be poisonous or cause health issues if consumed in large quantities.
• The article highlights the limitations of academic research in solving real-world mysteries.
• Trade secrets and closely guarded business information can be a major obstacle in uncovering the truth.
• The complexity of plant species and classification can make it difficult to determine the exact origin of the snack.