Elephant Foot Yam aka 'suran' is so called because under surface tuber/root (yam) looks like the foot of an elephant. It grows and harvested throughout the year. It is starchy like other yams and taros. It is used also as a substitute for potato in some dishes. It can be deep fried like chips, like French fries, used in various types of pickles and chetnies, put in sambar, or it's own main dishes.It is always cooked i.e. boiled or fried, before consumption.
After harvesting the yam it is thoroughly washed and dried inside for about a week or so before cooking it. Shelf life of yam is about 3 to 4 months.
Before you cook you have to peel the skin with a potato peeler or a knife, cut them into the shape you want to and soak in ample water for half an hour, changing the water once and then only use it in your cooking. It may itch your skin while peeling so you can use some oil to your palms or use gloves.
If under cooked may get itching of the mouth and throat while eating it. It has high percentage of Phosphorous and Oxalic acid so high consumption is not good on Kidneys (CKD) and also for Gout.Hope this will help.