The Purple potato, botanical name Solanum andigenum, is the name designated to dozens of heirloom and heritage varieties of Purple potatoes. Common names of these varieties include Purple Peruvian (fingerling variety), All Blue, Congo, Lion's Paw, Vitilette, Purple Viking and Purple Majesty. Purple Majesty is known the the deepest purple of all purple varieties, hence the given name. Purple potatoes are grown for both fresh market potatoes and for chipping potatoes.

Purple creamer potatoes are the young immature potato of purple potato varieties. Purple creamer potatoes are harvested far prior to maturity, when small and tender, averaging a mere one inch in diameter. They are petit, rounded and thin-skinned, thus the entire potato is edible. The purple creamer potato has an earthy purple colored smooth skin with a marbled purple flesh. The skin is high in moisture, while the flesh maintains a low level of starch. As its name suggests its flavor and texture are creamy.

Nutritional Value

The Purple potato's striking pigment is its nutritional life force, thanks to the antioxidant powerhouse anthocyanin, which is responsible for the purple and blue color of fruits and vegetables. This flavonoid has been shown in studies to possess anti-cancer and heart-protective effects, as well as benefits like boosting the immune system and protecting against age-related memory loss. The Purple potato's nutritional value and energy-rich properties have become factors for the potato's explosion in popularity in the late 20th century and early 21st century. Its ability to provide high quantities of vitamins, proteins, and antioxidants has become a valued measure of food security and sovereignty.

Serving Ideas

Purple creamer potatoes are ideal for roasting, boiling and grilling. They are great for potato salad and can be a nice addition to casseroles, soups and stews. The common use of creamer potatoes is for the potato dish known as creamed potatoes. They pair well with savory herbs, garlic, pork, poultry, artichokes, both rich and mild cheese, other starchy vegetables such as corn and shelled beans and of course, salad greens. To prepare, rinse well with water; no need to peel, the entire potato is edible. To store, keep cool in a well-ventilated area. Do not refrigerate.

Geography/History

The purple creamer potato is a cultivar of the original purple potato. The Purple potato is not unique in its place of origin. In Peru, it is one of 3000 varieties that have been cultivated by farmers for centuries. The Purple potato specifically may have been developed from a wild species that has inherent disease, pest, bacterial and frost resistance characteristics. Though they may not have the obvious significance as the Russet or Yukon Gold, genetic distribution and research places the Purple potato as one of the very first potatoes ever cultivated.

Seasons/Availability

Purple creamer potatoes are available in all seasons with intermittent gaping between crops.