ALOUETTE POTATO
Quick Overview
- The Alouette potato is an early maincrop variety known for its versatility and striking red skin paired with yellow flesh.
- It was developed by Agrico Research BV in the Netherlands, specifically as a blight-resistant option for both conventional and organic farming.
- This potato stands out for its firm texture and adaptability, making it a favorite for dishes like fries, boiled potatoes, and oven-roasted recipes.
- Bullet Points:
- Early maincrop harvest time.
- Red skin, yellow flesh.
- Suitable for organic and conventional production.
Origin & History
- Alouette originated in the Netherlands, bred by Agrico Research BV, with its introduction to the market in 2014.
- It is a result of crossing the Phytophthora-resistant AR 02-1391 with the Laura variety, initially intended as a parent line before its standout qualities led to full variety development.
- Designed to bolster the organic farming segment, it reflects years of selective breeding to combine disease resistance with desirable culinary traits.
- Bullet Points:
- Introduced in 2014.
- Bred by Agrico Research BV.
- Cross between AR 02-1391 and Laura.
Specifications
- Alouette produces oval-shaped tubers with shallow eyes, featuring a vibrant red skin and deep yellow flesh.
- It is classified as an early maincrop variety, typically maturing in 15–22 weeks, depending on climate and growing conditions.
- The potato boasts a good dry matter content, which supports its use in a range of cooking methods from boiling to frying.
- Bullet Points:
- Oval tubers with shallow eyes.
- Matures in 15–22 weeks.
- High dry matter content.
Key Characteristics
- Alouette is prized for its exceptional resistance to late blight (Phytophthora infestans) in both foliage and tubers, a critical trait for sustainable farming.
- Its firm cooking type and rich flavor have earned it high marks in sensory evaluations, making it a versatile kitchen staple.
- The variety’s rapid foliage development provides dense canopy cover, naturally suppressing weeds and enhancing yield stability.
- Bullet Points:
- Late blight resistant (foliage and tuber).
- Firm texture, excellent flavor.
- Dense canopy for weed suppression.
Health Benefits
- Like other potatoes, Alouette offers a good source of carbohydrates for energy, with its resistant starch content potentially aiding gut health when cooled after cooking.
- It provides essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, supporting immune function and blood pressure regulation.
- With no fat or cholesterol and moderate fiber when eaten with the skin, it fits well into a balanced, health-conscious diet.
- Bullet Points:
- Rich in vitamin C and potassium.
- Contains resistant starch for gut health.
- Fat-free and cholesterol-free.