When buying blue potatoes how can you tell what color the flesh will be?
Most of the time when I purchase blue potatoes they have blue flesh. However, once in a while I get some that have a creamy golden flesh. Looking at them I had no idea they would be different.
I know there are many varieties but usually in the grocery store we are not provided that information. I've tried asking the produce clerks but essentially they are stockers with very little knowledge about produce.
Is there a way you can tell without opening a bag or damaging a potato to get a look?
Best Answer
It's almost impossible to tell without studying all the different types of blue/purple potatoes and memorizing slight differences in size and hue. One trick is that the potatoes with the deepest, darkest blue skin typically have purple flesh. And the lighter ones are more likely to have flesh that's yellow or even white.
Sometimes, the potato will have a sign with the exact name of their variety:
Examples:
- Royal Blue Potato - Light blue skin, yellow flesh; typically large and oval-shaped
- Andirondack Blue Potato - deep blue/purple skin, light purple flesh
- All-Blue Potato - deep blue skin and flesh
(I suggest doing a Google Image search on these varieties to learn the difference)
One interesting fact: the Andirondack Blue Potato is a hybrid developed by Cornell University, which is how it got its purple flesh. I'm not sure if purple-fleshed potatoes exist in nature.
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What color are blue potatoes?
Purple potatoes, sometimes referred to as blue potatoes, are a type of potato which are native to South America. While very similar to their white grocery store counterparts, these potatoes exhibit a beautiful purple colored skin and flesh.How do blue potatoes get their color?
Purple and blue potatoes originate from South America. This color comes from the anthocyanin pigments in both the skin and flesh. Anthocyanins are the same compounds that give color to eggplant, red cabbage, blackberry, concord grapes, and other fruits and vegetables.How can you tell if a purple potato is green?
For the really dark purple varieties, it may be hard to impossble to see clearly. In these cases, a bit of knowledge about solanine distribution in green potatoes helps: the highest concentration is found in the green parts of the skin and directly (as in one or two mm) below.What are blue potatoes best for?
Something Blue potatoes are a unique find in your grocery store's produce aisle or department. Delivering a well-balanced and slightly exotic flavor, they pair well with strong flavors like your favorite cut of beef / steak, lamb, seafood and more.ADIRONDACK BLUE POTATOES 💜🥔
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