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The
first Cornish Early new potatoes have been dug to launch the 2005
new season.
These
are the very first small, sweet new potatoes grown on home soil,
and they hit UK shops and menus from late April and throughout May.
There's
something new about the Cornish Earlies this year.
The
popular potato is being sold 'dirty'.
Experts
believe this maintains the quality, taste and freshness.
Cornish
Earlies are a vital part of the rural economy in west Cornwall.
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Cornish Early grows in west Cornwall |
Penwith
District Council and Cornwall Taste of the West have been working
with farmers growing Cornish Earlies, to develop a campaign to raise
the potato variety's profile.
The
county's mild climate and the influence of the Gulf Stream make
the Penwith area particularly suitable for growing Cornish Earlies.
These
first new potatoes of the season are a real sign that spring has
arrived.
Potatoes
have been grown in Cornish Cottage gardens since the mid 1700s,
when the potato and pilchard were the staple diet of most working
Cornishmen and their families.
It
was not until the early 19th century that a market really developed
for the Cornish Early variety.
By
1808 the first Cornish potatoes of the season were in such demand,
they were being shipped all around the UK, to Europe and even as
far as Barbados and Newfoundland.
Today
the Cornish Earlies are still a popular brand. But a new campaign
hopes to take them into many more homes over the coming weeks.
The
Deliciously Dirty campaign is promoting the appeal of the Cornish
Earlies and the importance of selling it unwashed, which protects
its delicate skin and texture.
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Deliciously
Dirty website
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To
find out more about the sweet and rich tasting Cornish Early,
and for some great recipes visit the potato variety's own
website at: www.deliciouslydirty.co.uk
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