Achi news desk-
It’s no secret that Ukrainian farmers in the 2023/24 season finally managed to make good money on potatoes, selling them for an average of 45-55 US cents per kg. But in France the prices for some types of potatoes look amazing, but the demand for them is not only there – it exceeds the supply! This is reported by EastFruit, agronews.ua writer.
We are talking, of course, about the famous Le Bonnotte potatoes, which are grown on a very limited area of ​​sandy soil on the island of Noirmoute in France, fertilized with seaweed and other algae.
These exquisite tubers are famous for their delicate taste, creamy texture and very thin and delicate skin. The maritime climate of the island, the sandy soil and the growing conditions rich in seaweed contribute to the unique taste and texture of these potatoes.
They are usually planted in late winter or early spring and harvested in late spring or early summer. Le Bonnotte’s potatoes are available to consumers for a very short period of the year, usually from the end of April to the beginning of June. It is important to use such expensive potatoes immediately after picking in order to enjoy the full flavor, so that they are not stored.
La bono potatoes are small to medium in size, often resembling new potatoes. The irregular shape of the tubers of these potatoes and their uneven appearance add to their charm. The skin of the Le Bonnot potato is pale yellow or beige, the flesh is creamy white.
These potatoes have a waxy texture that makes them ideal for boiling, steaming or baking. Le Bonnotte’s potatoes are prized for their nutty, earthy flavor with subtle hints of seaweed. Some describe this taste as “the taste of the sea”.
La Bono potatoes are traditionally picked by hand. Farmers carefully dig out the tubers using a special tool called “bêche à pommes de terre”. The harvest is a holiday, and the locals celebrate it with music, dancing and feasting. Why not have fun considering how much money they will make selling those potatoes?!!!
Due to the labor intensive cultivation and limited availability, Le Bonnotte potatoes are considered a luxury ingredient. Their limited production and unique taste contribute to their high price, making them a delicacy sought after by true connoisseurs. If, of course, these gourmets are really rich, because not everyone will be able to buy potatoes at the price of 40-50 thousand euros per kg.
Le Bonnotte potatoes are best enjoyed by letting their natural flavor shine through. If you can afford to buy these potatoes, steam them until done, then add oil, sea salt and fresh herbs. Serve a la bono potatoes with grilled fish, seafood or meat. Some chefs use it in luxurious dishes, such as potato salads, stews or soups.
I wonder if it is possible to find in Ukraine local varieties of potatoes with a special taste, which really reveal their taste in certain natural and climatic conditions? If so, why not create a similar profitable niche?
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