Red baby kumara, also known as red baby sweet potato or red baby yam, is a smaller and sweeter variety of the sweet potato family. It has a vibrant red or orange skin with a creamy yellow to orange flesh. It is smaller in size compared to regular sweet potatoes. The flesh is sweet and has a smooth, buttery texture. Red baby kumara is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that adds colour and sweetness to your meals. It's a popular choice for both home cooks and professional chefs, offering versatility and unique flavours to a wide range of dishes.

Nutritional Information: Red baby kumara is packed with nutrients. It is a good source of dietary fibre, vitamins A, B6 and C, potassium, and antioxidants. It also contains complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy.

Usage Ideas: Red baby kumara is versatile and can be used in various ways. It can be roasted, boiled, steamed, mashed, or used in soups, stews, casseroles, and salads. The sweet flavour pairs well with both sweet and savoury dishes. Roast with herbs and spices for a crispy side dish or mash with butter and seasoning for a creamy and flavourful puree. It can also be sliced and used in gratins, or added to curries and stir-fries.

Availability & Storage: In New Zealand, red baby kumara is commonly grown and available year-round.

To store: Keep in a cool, dry and dark well ventilated place, such as a pantry. The ideal temperature range for storing kumara is around 10 to 15 degrees. Avoid storing them in areas with high humidity, as it can cause them to spoil quickly. Kumara should not be stored in the refrigerator, as the cold temperature can alter their flavour and texture and cause the starches to convert into sugars more quickly, resulting in a different taste and potentially a harder texture.