When it comes to potatoes, most people are familiar with the standard white or brown varieties found in supermarkets. However, there’s a whole world of tiny, colored potatoes that are not only visually stunning but also packed with unique flavors and textures. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of new potatoes and heritage varieties, exploring what these tiny colored potatoes are called, their characteristics, and how to use them in your cooking.
What are New Potatoes?
New potatoes, also known as baby potatoes or young potatoes, are harvested before they reach full maturity. They’re typically picked 7-10 weeks after planting, when the plants are still green and the tubers are small and tender. New potatoes have a thinner skin than mature potatoes and a sweeter, nuttier flavor.
Characteristics of New Potatoes
New potatoes have several distinct characteristics that set them apart from mature potatoes:
- Thin skin: New potatoes have a delicate, edible skin that’s often left intact when cooking.
- Sweet flavor: New potatoes are sweeter and have a more delicate flavor than mature potatoes.
- Tender texture: New potatoes are waxy and tender, making them perfect for boiling, steaming, or roasting.
- Small size: New potatoes are harvested when they’re small, typically between 1-2 inches in diameter.
Heritage Varieties: The Tiny Colored Potatoes
Heritage varieties, also known as heirloom potatoes, are old-fashioned potato varieties that have been preserved and passed down through generations. These tiny colored potatoes come in a range of colors, including purple, blue, red, yellow, and white. Each variety has its unique characteristics, flavors, and textures.
Popular Heritage Varieties
Some popular heritage varieties include:
- Purple Peruvian: A deep purple potato with a sweet, nutty flavor and firm texture.
- Blue Danube: A blue-skinned potato with a buttery, sweet flavor and waxy texture.
- Red Thumb: A small, red-skinned potato with a sweet, earthy flavor and firm texture.
- Yellow Finn: A small, yellow-skinned potato with a buttery, sweet flavor and waxy texture.
Cooking with Tiny Colored Potatoes
Tiny colored potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some tips for cooking with these delicious potatoes:
Boiling and Steaming
Boiling and steaming are great ways to cook new potatoes and heritage varieties. Simply place the potatoes in a pot of salted water, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Alternatively, steam the potatoes for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
Roasting
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in tiny colored potatoes. Cut the potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size, and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and caramelized.
Salads and Sides
Tiny colored potatoes are a great addition to salads and sides. Try tossing cooked potatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a simple salad. Alternatively, use cooked potatoes as a topping for soups or stews.
Health Benefits of Tiny Colored Potatoes
Tiny colored potatoes are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients. Here are some of the key health benefits of these potatoes:
Antioxidants
Heritage varieties, in particular, are high in antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Fiber
New potatoes and heritage varieties are high in fiber, which can help promote digestive health and support healthy blood sugar levels.
Vitamins and Minerals
Tiny colored potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese.
Where to Find Tiny Colored Potatoes
Tiny colored potatoes can be found in a variety of places, including:
Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets are a great place to find heritage varieties and new potatoes. Many farmers specialize in growing these unique potatoes, and you can often find them in a range of colors and varieties.
Specialty Grocery Stores
Specialty grocery stores, like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s, often carry a selection of heritage varieties and new potatoes.
Online Retailers
Online retailers, like Amazon or specialty food websites, often carry a range of heritage varieties and new potatoes.
Conclusion
Tiny colored potatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for new potatoes or heritage varieties, there’s a world of flavors and textures to explore. With their unique characteristics, versatility in cooking, and numerous health benefits, it’s no wonder these tiny potatoes are becoming increasingly popular. So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmers’ market, be sure to pick up some of these tiny colored potatoes and experience their delicious flavor for yourself.
| Potato Variety | Color | Flavor | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purple Peruvian | Purple | Sweet, nutty | Firm |
| Blue Danube | Blue | Buttery, sweet | Waxy |
| Red Thumb | Red | Sweet, earthy | Firm |
| Yellow Finn | Yellow | Buttery, sweet | Waxy |
Note: The table provides a summary of some popular heritage varieties, including their color, flavor, and texture.
What are new potatoes, and how do they differ from regular potatoes?
New potatoes are young, immature potatoes that are harvested before they reach full maturity. They are typically smaller in size, with thinner, tender skin that is often left intact during cooking. Unlike regular potatoes, new potatoes have a sweeter, nuttier flavor and a waxy texture that makes them ideal for boiling, steaming, or roasting.
New potatoes are usually harvested within 7-10 weeks of planting, when the plants are still green and the tubers are small. This early harvest allows for a more delicate flavor and texture, as well as a lower starch content. Regular potatoes, on the other hand, are harvested when the plants have matured and the tubers have reached their full size, resulting in a starchier, more dense potato.
What are heritage varieties of potatoes, and why are they important?
Heritage varieties of potatoes are traditional, heirloom varieties that have been preserved and passed down through generations. These varieties often have unique characteristics, such as distinct colors, shapes, and flavors, that set them apart from modern commercial potatoes. Heritage varieties are important because they offer a connection to the past and help to preserve the genetic diversity of potatoes.
Heritage varieties are also often better suited to specific growing conditions and can be more resistant to disease and pests. Additionally, they can provide a unique and exciting culinary experience, with flavors and textures that are not found in modern potatoes. By growing and consuming heritage varieties, we can help to preserve the rich cultural heritage of potatoes and promote a more diverse and resilient food system.
What are some popular heritage varieties of potatoes?
There are many popular heritage varieties of potatoes, each with its own unique characteristics. Some examples include the ‘Shetland Black’, a small, dark-skinned potato with a sweet, nutty flavor; the ‘Pink Fir Apple’, a pink-skinned potato with a waxy texture and a sweet, earthy flavor; and the ‘Ratte’, a small, nutty potato with a brown skin and a buttery, earthy flavor.
These heritage varieties can add a new level of excitement and diversity to the kitchen, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple boiled potatoes to elaborate potato salads. They can also be used to make traditional dishes, such as gnocchi or latkes, and can be paired with a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses.
How do I grow new potatoes and heritage varieties?
Growing new potatoes and heritage varieties requires careful planning and attention to detail. First, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and a pH between 4.5 and 7.0. Plant the seed potatoes in early spring, when the soil is cool and moist, and space them about 12 inches apart. As the plants grow, add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
To harvest new potatoes, gently dig around the plants with a fork, being careful not to damage the tubers. For heritage varieties, follow the same planting and care instructions, but be prepared for varying growth habits and maturation times. Some heritage varieties may require more support or pruning, so be sure to research the specific needs of the variety you are growing.
Can I grow new potatoes and heritage varieties in containers?
Yes, it is possible to grow new potatoes and heritage varieties in containers. In fact, container growing can be a great way to produce a crop of new potatoes, as it allows for good drainage and soil quality. Choose a container that is at least 6-8 inches deep and has drainage holes in the bottom. Fill the container with a good quality potting mix and plant the seed potatoes about 2-3 inches deep.
As the plants grow, add more potting mix to the container, leaving only a few inches of the leaves exposed. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide support for the plants as needed. Harvest the new potatoes when the plants start to yellow and die back, usually within 7-10 weeks of planting. Heritage varieties can also be grown in containers, but may require more space and support.
How do I store new potatoes and heritage varieties?
New potatoes and heritage varieties should be stored in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause them to spoil quickly. For new potatoes, it’s best to store them in a paper bag or breathable container, as this will help to maintain humidity and keep them fresh.
For heritage varieties, store them in a similar way, but be aware that some varieties may be more prone to spoilage than others. Check on the potatoes regularly to remove any that are spoiling, and use them within a few weeks of harvest. It’s also a good idea to store new potatoes and heritage varieties separately from other potatoes, as they can absorb moisture and ethylene gas from other potatoes, causing them to spoil more quickly.
Can I save seed potatoes from my harvest to replant next year?
Yes, it is possible to save seed potatoes from your harvest to replant next year. In fact, this is a great way to preserve heritage varieties and ensure a consistent supply of seed potatoes. To save seed potatoes, choose healthy, disease-free tubers from your harvest and store them in a cool, dark place over the winter.
In the spring, remove the seed potatoes from storage and allow them to sprout. Once the sprouts are about 1-2 inches long, cut the seed potatoes into sections, making sure each section has at least one “eye” or bud. Allow the sections to dry for a day or two before planting them in the garden. Keep in mind that saved seed potatoes may not produce tubers that are true to the variety, so it’s always a good idea to purchase certified disease-free seed potatoes from a reputable supplier.