Andean Potatoes

The greatest diversity in wild potato species occurs in the Lake Titicaca region of Peru and Boliva, where it is speculated potatoes were domesticated between seven and ten thousand years ago. From a single botanical species, Solanum tuberosum, thousands of varieties have been cultivated. Of interest in this chapter are the Peruvian yellow potatoes commonly known as papas criollas and the blue or purple potatoes known as papas moradas. These two unique varieties are still found in Peru and are available in North American markets. Specialty distributors, such as Frieda’s or Melissa’s (see Sources), supply the U.S. markets. On occasion, potato growers at farmers’ markets have unique Peruvian varieties.