Many distinct potato varieties are naturally purple, ranging in hue from deep violet to a lighter lavender. These vibrant spuds are not only visually appealing but also offer a unique flavor profile often described as slightly nutty or earthy.
In some markets, purple potatoes are also commonly referred to as blue potatoes, reflecting the varied color intensity found among different types. The distinct coloration is due to anthocyanins, the same powerful antioxidants found in blueberries and red cabbage.
Popular Purple Potato Varieties
There is a wide array of purple potato varieties, each with its own characteristics in terms of size, shape, texture, and intensity of color. Some of the well-known varieties include:
- Purple Peruvian: Known for its long, slender shape and deep purple skin and flesh.
- Purple Majesty: A popular choice with a uniform deep purple color throughout its flesh.
- All Blue: A heritage variety featuring blue-purple skin and streaky purple flesh.
- Blue Swede: Often used for mashing due to its creamy texture and rich purple color.
- Adirondack Blue: Distinct for its vibrant blue skin and flesh, often used for colorful chips and salads.
- Blue Anneliese: A European variety with deep purple skin and flesh, good for roasting.
- Purple Fiesta: Offers a striking appearance with its purple skin and white or cream-colored flesh.
- Vitelotte: An old French variety, recognizable by its elongated, knobbly shape and dark purplish-black skin with purple flesh.
- Magic Molly: Retains its deep purple color even after cooking, making it excellent for vibrant dishes.
- Blue Elise: Known for its consistent deep blue-purple flesh.
- Purple Pelisse: Features a deep purple skin and flesh, suitable for various culinary uses.
- Purple Viking: Distinguished by its purple skin with splashes of pink, and white flesh.
- Congo: An heirloom variety with a very dark, almost black, skin and purple flesh.
- St. Galler: A European variety with a deep purple hue.
These varieties offer a visually striking alternative to traditional white or yellow potatoes, adding a burst of color and unique appeal to various dishes, from salads to roasted sides.
