| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 35g | 20g | 14g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 21g | 1.5g |
There’s something magical about a dish that unites the diverse elements of your culinary journey. For me, Baked Ulluco with Cheese does just that. This recipe is a perfect blend of the fresh, vibrant tastes I’m accustomed to here in California, with a touch of my Gujarati heritage, combined with an irresistible cheesy layer that my whole family loves.
A Bite of History and Tradition
Ulluco is a tuber vegetable from the Andean region, similar to potatoes but with a unique taste and texture. Growing up, we didn’t have ulluco, but I’ve always been fascinated by its history and flavor. This ingredient resonates with my love for incorporating new and meaningful foods into my family’s diet. Combining such a rare find with widely loved cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan brings a touch of global fusion into the mix.
A Healthier Comfort Food
Not only is this dish comforting; it’s also packed with health benefits. Ulluco is known for its high water content, making it low in calories yet rich in fiber and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. This makes Baked Ulluco with Cheese a wonderfully healthy comfort food option. The addition of garlic and parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds their own health benefits. Both are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, making this a nutrient-packed meal.
While this dish can certainly stand alone, it pairs excellently with fresh salads or a side of roasted chicken. It’s also reminiscent of dishes like cheesy scalloped potatoes or a vegetable au gratin, but with a unique twist thanks to the ulluco.
If you’re intrigued by this dish, you might also enjoy trying recipes that use Andean ingredients. There’s more to discover about these incredible, often underrepresented foods.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs ulluco, washed and sliced
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step Two
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step Three
Add the washed and sliced ulluco to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ulluco begins to soften.
Step Four
In a separate bowl, combine the grated mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well to create a creamy cheese mixture.
Step Five
Transfer the cooked ulluco to the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the ulluco, spreading it evenly.
Step Six
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Step Seven
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Baked Ulluco with Cheese!
