Nutritional composition of ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus) tubers

Ulluco have recently been re-introduced into New Zealand from South America and are currently undergoing growing trials with a view to release as a new vegetable crop. This crop produces highly variegated coloured small tubers which can been eaten both cooked and raw. Colours include yellow, red, magenta, and green, sometimes in the same tuber. The leaves can also be eaten. Proximate analysis in New Zealand has shown that the tubers contain high levels of carbohydrate (84-94%), moderate levels of protein (9-12%), low levels of fat (0.7-0.9%), and some vitamin C (5-9 mg/100 g). They compare well with other staple crops eaten in this country. Some tubers contain mucilage which can either been removed by soaking or left specifically to thicken the food.