Physalis or Golden Berries
Uchuva, also known by its scientific name Physalis Peruviana, is a round, orange, shiny fruit between 1.5 to 2.5 cm in diameter. The fruit is covered by thin leaves and has small, edible seeds inside. It has a bittersweet flavor.
For consumption, remove the leaves and wash the fruit. The Uchuva can be eaten alone, or it can be used in salads, juices, sauces, desserts, cakes, cocktails and also as a snack filled with chocolate. The uchuva is also ideal for preparing jam.
Nutritional information
Uchuva are a great source of vitamin A (3,000 IU of carotene per 100 g). They are also rich in vitamin C, contain vitamin B complex, protein (0.3%) and phosphorus (55%).
Minimum Brix degress
Crops
Uchuvas are grown in Colombia in the cold areas of Boyacá, Caldas, Cundinamarca and Antioquia. The Uchuva grows well in areas located between 1,800 and 3,000 MASL. The optimal temperature for cultivation ranges from 13° to 18°C with an average rainfall between 1,000 and 2,000 mm per year.