Jersey Royals

Jersey Royal potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) — the PDO-protected new potato grown exclusively on the island of Jersey in the Channel Islands. Jersey Royals are one of the few British ingredients with a genuine protected designation, awarded because the combination of the island's maritime climate, its steep south-facing côtils (coastal slopes), and the traditional use of vraic — seaweed gathered from Jersey's beaches and dug into the soil as fertiliser — produces a potato with a flavour and texture that cannot be replicated elsewhere. The seaweed contributes iodine and trace minerals to the soil, and together with the mild, Gulf Stream-influenced climate, gives the potato its characteristic earthy-sweet, nutty quality.

These arrive with soil still on them, which is how they should be — the earthy coating protects the thin, papery skin during transit and is a sign that they have not been washed and processed. The flesh is firm, waxy and yellow, with a texture that holds together when boiled and a flavour that is concentrated enough to carry a dish with nothing more than butter, salt and fresh mint. Jersey Royals are a strictly seasonal product, available only during the spring harvest window. When the season ends, they are gone — there is no stored or year-round supply. This is the potato you buy because it is here now and will not be for long.

Origin: Jersey, Channel Islands (PDO)

Ingredients: Jersey Royal potatoes (Solanum tuberosum)

Storage: Store in a cool, dark, dry place and use within a few days. Do not refrigerate. These are new potatoes — they are not designed for long storage.