Purple Fingerling Potatoes
Estimated Inventory, 10 lbs : 0
Description/Taste
Purple fingerling potatoes are small in size and are cylindrical, oblong, and slightly lumpy in shape. The skin is deep purple and semi-smooth with numerous shallow eyes, and there are also many brown spots appearing across the surface. The flesh is firm and dense with a vivid violet to rich purple hue with some purple and white marbling. When cooked, Purple fingerling potatoes have a dry and waxy texture and offer an earthy flavor with hints of toasted nuts.
Seasons/Availability
Purple fingerling potatoes are available year-round
Current Facts
Purple fingerling potatoes, botanically classified as Solanum tuberosum, are a variety that has recently increased in popularity and are members of the Solanaceae or nightshade family. There are only a handful of Purple fingerling varieties on the market, but due to the increased demand for purple colored “superfoods,” this prompted breeders to create new varieties such as the Purple Pelisse. Purple fingerling potatoes can accompany many different main dishes and are a colorful and antioxidant-packed alternative to the regular white and red potatoes.
Nutritional Value
Purple fingerling potatoes are an excellent source of potassium and antioxidants.
Applications
Purple fingerling potatoes are best suited for cooked applications such as roasting, steaming, or baking. Purple fingerlings hold their shape when cooked and retain their vibrant color which adds visual appeal. This bright coloring also makes Purple fingerlings ideal for slicing thin and frying to make colorful chips. Cooked Purple potato segments can be served as is or used cold in potato salads. They can also be roasted and smashed for a crispy side dish. Purple fingerling potatoes pair well with balsamic, broccoli, onions, eggs, carrots, sausage, Brussel sprouts, lemon, poultry, tomatoes, garlic, and aioli. They will keep up to two weeks when stored in a cool, dry, and dark place.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
There has been a push to popularize purple-hued potatoes in the United States because of their anthocyanin content, which gives produce, like cranberries and blueberries, their vibrant hue and is loaded with antioxidants. Today, new Purple fingerling varieties have come onto the market such as the Purple Pelisse which was created in 2000 by Oregon State University, Washington State University, University of Idaho, and the USDA. The Purple Pelisse was created specifically to meet the increasing demand for Purple potatoes and to be a commercially viable variety. The Purple Pelisse has a consistent size and shape, increased resistance to disease, and produces reliable yields.
Geography/History
Purple potatoes originated in South America and were used as a source of food and as a natural purple dye. They were then spread to the other continents in the 16th century via Spanish sailors as they gathered and used the tubers to cure scurvy for long voyages. Purple fingerling potatoes are available today at specialty grocers and markets in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Purple Fingerling Potatoes. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Beth Dunham |
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Leek, Potato & Fennel Soup |
| Ciao Florentina |
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Purple Potato Salad |
