Vitanoire POTATO
Quick Overview
Vitanoire potatoes are a visually striking, dark purple variety of potato known for their rich flavor and versatility in cooking. They are a relatively new cultivar, developed in the 21st century, and are gaining attention for their unique appearance and nutritional potential. This Dutch variety is prized by chefs and home cooks alike for its ability to retain its vibrant color even after being cooked.
- Unique Appearance: Known for their deep purple, almost black skin and flesh.
- Culinary Versatility: Suitable for boiling, roasting, frying, and mashing.
- Recent Introduction: A modern variety released in the 21st century.
Origin & History
Vitanoire potatoes originated in the Netherlands, where they were bred by the company Plantera and introduced as a new table and seed potato variety. They trace their roots to the broader potato family, which began with the domestication of wild potatoes in southern Peru and northwestern Bolivia around 7,000–10,000 years ago, though Vitanoire itself is a contemporary innovation. Since their release, they have started to carve out a niche in European markets, appreciated for their resistance to late blight and appealing qualities.
- Dutch Breeding: Developed by Plantera in the Netherlands.
- Ancient Ancestry: Part of the Solanum tuberosum species, domesticated millennia ago in South America.
- Market Emergence: Gaining popularity in Europe since the early 2000s.
Specifications
Vitanoire potatoes are typically smaller than many common potato varieties, averaging 9 to 10 centimeters in length and 5 to 5.5 centimeters in diameter, with an oval to oblong shape. They can be harvested as an early crop (under 95 days) or as a main crop, with availability ranging from late spring through fall depending on planting schedules. The tubers are uniform in size, featuring thin, taut skin and a dense, slippery flesh when raw that becomes waxy and creamy when cooked.
- Size: 9–10 cm long, 5–5.5 cm wide, smaller than average potatoes.
- Shape: Oval to oblong with blunt, curved edges.
- Harvest Timing: Early crop in under 95 days or main crop from June to August.
Key Characteristics
The most notable characteristic of Vitanoire potatoes is their deep purple, almost black skin and flesh, which retain their color post-cooking, making them a standout in dishes. They offer a rich, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor, paired with a firm, waxy texture that holds up well in various preparations. Additionally, this variety is resistant to late blight, a significant advantage for growers combating this common potato disease.
- Color Retention: Vibrant purple hue persists after cooking.
- Flavor Profile: Rich, earthy, and subtly nutty taste.
- Disease Resistance: Strong resistance to late blight.
Health Benefits
Vitanoire potatoes, like other purple potatoes, are rich in anthocyanins, antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and protect against cellular damage from free radicals. They provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C for immune support, potassium for fluid balance, and fiber for digestive health, though specific studies on Vitanoire are limited. Their nutrient density makes them a potentially healthful addition to a balanced diet when prepared without excessive fats or calories.
- Antioxidant Content: High in anthocyanins with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Nutrient Rich: Offers vitamin C, potassium, and fiber among other nutrients.
- Digestive Support: Fiber content aids in regulating the digestive system.