Shetland Black Potatoes
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Shetland Black potatoes are small to medium in size and are oval to kidney-shaped. The skin is thick and uneven and is a mixture of dark purple and deep blue hues. The skin is also semi-smooth and is covered in light brown, small bumps and spots with a few medium-set eyes. The flesh is creamy white to yellow with a small ring of purple speckled around the edge. Black Shetland potatoes, like other heritage varieties, have a light, floury texture and contain a subtle earthiness mixed with a sweet, buttery flavor when cooked. The plant produces small amounts of tubers and has dark green foliage and purple-white flowers.
Seasons/Availability
Shetland Black potatoes are available in the summer through early fall.
Current Facts
Shetland Black potatoes, botanically classified as Solanum tuberosum ‘Shetland Black’, are a part of the Slow Food’s United Kingdom Ark of Taste, which highlights nearly forgotten or endangered fruit and vegetable species. They are an extremely rare variety that is only found in small quantities and are not commercially cultivated as they are not high yielding and have an unbalanced, unusual shape which is not favored today in the mass market.
Nutritional Value
Shetland Black potatoes contain potassium and anthocyanins, which are natural antioxidants important to overall dietary health.
Applications
Shetland Black potatoes are best suited for cooked applications such as sautéing, boiling, and roasting. The most popular method is frying to create a chip or crisp. The purple ring in the flesh and dark hues of the skin will not survive the cooking process and transforms into a dull grey-brown color. It has been recommended that Shetland Black potatoes are best when cooked with skin on to preserve its light and floury texture. The skin is thicker than other potato varieties, so many chefs often choose to remove the skin after specific cooking applications to avoid its chewy nature. Shetland Black potatoes absorb flavors from sauces and gravies and pair well with meats such as smoked mackerel or cider pork chops. Shetland Black potatoes will keep well if stored in a cool and dry place.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Shetland Black potatoes are only found in small quantities in the United Kingdom and the Shetland Isles. Through efforts from national food organizations, there is a movement to retain the heritage of this specific variety and encourage its use in recipes as a specialty potato though it will not be utilized in commercial production.
Geography/History
Shetland Black potatoes are believed to have originated in the Shetland Isles. It is relatively unknown when they were actually discovered, but Shetland Black potatoes were thought to have been added to the national collection in 1923. Today Shetland Black potatoes can be found at limited markets in the United Kingdom and on the Shetland Isles.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Shetland Black Potatoes. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Elizabeth's Kitchen |
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Roasted Shetland Black Potatoes with Sea Salt and Rosemary |
