Jersey Royals are a unique potato grown (unsurprisingly) only in Jersey. Jersey Royals have Protected Designation of Origin status (the only fresh fruit or vegetable in the UK to have this) and are only available in Jersey and mainland UK. The Jersey Royal growing season is usually from January to July and the crop is available from late March to July (depending on the weather). The potatoes have an amazing taste which supposedly comes from Jersey’s rich, fertile, earth, the gentle climate and the use of seaweed as fertiliser (though this seems to be less common nowadays).
So what do you do with Jersey Royal potatoes? They are a fabulous seasonal treat and really stand-up on their own in terms of taste. I like Jersey Royal Potatoes with Mint. A really simple and delicious side dish that will go with almost anything but especially good with Gluten Free Vegan Haggis or Baked Mushrooms With Crispy Sage. They also make a fabulous potato salad if you allow them to cool (and don’t eat them first).
I am a big fan of seasonal food and when you have seasonal food like Jersey Royal potatoes it makes you appreciate the seasons, the weather and the effort taken to grow such amazing fruit and vegetables.