Fingerling Potatoes – Petite and Perfect

For a unique and fun twist on potatoes, try Fingerlings.
These small, elongated potatoes come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, and purple. They have a firm, waxy texture that holds up well during cooking. Fingerlings are perfect for roasting, and their small size makes them a hit for serving in elegant, gourmet dishes.

• Best For: Roasting, salads
• Fun Fact: Fingerling potatoes are named after their finger-like shape!

Definition: Fingerling potatoes are small, narrow potatoes that resemble fingers in shape, hence their name. These little potatoes come in various colors, from golden yellow to red and purple, but they all share one common trait: their unique shape and creamy texture. Fingerlings are often prized for their rich flavor and versatility, making them a popular choice in gourmet cooking. Despite their small size, they pack a big punch when it comes to taste and can be used in a variety of dishes, from roasted sides to salads and even soups.

The Allure of Fingerling Potatoes
The defining feature of fingerling potatoes is their shape. They tend to be long and elongated, with a slightly wrinkled skin that adds to their rustic charm. Unlike most other potatoes, fingerlings have a waxy texture, which helps them maintain their form during cooking. This means they hold up beautifully in everything from boiling and roasting to sautéing.

• Small but Mighty: Don’t let their small size fool you; fingerling potatoes are packed with flavor. The skin is thin yet flavorful, while the flesh is creamy and buttery, with a slightly nutty taste that makes them ideal for various culinary uses.
• Varieties: Fingerling potatoes come in several varieties, including Russian Banana, French Fingerling, and Rose Finn Apple. Each variety has its own slight variation in flavor and texture, but they all share the same petite, finger-like shape.

Flavor Profile: Nutty, Buttery, and Slightly Sweet
The flavor of fingerling potatoes is rich and complex. They have a buttery, slightly nutty taste that is balanced by a subtle sweetness. Their waxy texture gives them a creamy mouthfeel, which makes them a favorite for roasting and boiling. The thin skin of fingerling potatoes adds extra flavor, which is why they’re often left unpeeled.

• Ideal for Roasting: Fingerling potatoes roast up beautifully, with their tender, buttery texture and crispy skin. When roasted, they become golden and slightly crispy on the outside, while maintaining their creamy texture inside. A drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and a sprinkle of sea salt create a simple yet irresistible dish.
• Perfect for Potato Salad: Fingerling potatoes are a natural choice for potato salads. Their waxy texture ensures they maintain their shape after boiling, so they hold up well when tossed with dressing, herbs, and other salad ingredients. Their unique flavor adds depth to any potato salad.
• Sautéing for Perfection: Fingerling potatoes can be sliced or halved and sautéed in butter or olive oil with garlic and fresh herbs for a delicious side dish. They crisp up beautifully in the pan while maintaining their creamy interior, offering a perfect balance of textures.

Health Benefits of Fingerling Potatoes
Though fingerling potatoes are often seen as a more luxurious or gourmet variety, they still provide several health benefits and nutritional values, much like their larger counterparts. Despite their small size, these potatoes are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

• Rich in Potassium: Fingerling potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which is important for regulating blood pressure and supporting heart health. A serving of fingerling potatoes can help you meet your daily potassium needs.
• High in Fiber: Fingerling potatoes contain a good amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, reduce cholesterol levels, and may aid in managing blood sugar levels. Eating the skin of fingerling potatoes is an excellent way to boost your fiber intake.
• Packed with Vitamin C: Like other potato varieties, fingerling potatoes are rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and promotes healthy skin. This vitamin also acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting your cells from free radical damage.
• Low in Calories: Despite their richness in flavor, fingerling potatoes are low in calories, making them a great option for those looking to enjoy a satisfying side dish without adding too many extra calories.

Cooking Fingerling Potatoes: Endless Possibilities
Due to their versatility and unique size, fingerling potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some creative and delicious ways to incorporate these petite spuds into your meals:

1. Fingerling Potato Hash: Cube or slice fingerling potatoes and sauté them with bell peppers, onions, and your choice of protein (bacon, sausage, or grilled chicken). The crispy edges and creamy centers make this a comforting, satisfying dish perfect for breakfast or brunch.
2. Garlic Herb Roasted Fingerlings: Roast fingerling potatoes with a generous amount of garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roasting them at high heat results in a crispy golden-brown exterior and soft interior that makes for a perfect side dish.
3. Fingerling Potato Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette: Boil fingerling potatoes until tender, then toss with a tangy mustard vinaigrette, chopped green onions, and fresh herbs for a light yet flavorful potato salad. Serve chilled for a refreshing summer dish.
4. Creamy Fingerling Potato Soup: Add fingerling potatoes to a creamy soup for extra richness. Their waxy texture and buttery flavor create a smooth and velvety soup. Add leeks, garlic, and vegetable broth for a comforting bowl of goodness, topped with a dollop of sour cream or crumbled bacon.
5. Fingerling Potato Gratin: Layer thin slices of fingerling potatoes with cream, garlic, cheese, and fresh herbs to make a luxurious potato gratin. Bake until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy for a special occasion dish or side for dinner.
6. Fingerling Potatoes on the Grill: Grill whole fingerling potatoes for a smoky flavor. Parboil them first, then toss with olive oil, herbs, and seasonings before grilling. The slight char and grill marks give the potatoes a delicious smokiness that’s perfect for summer barbecues.
7. Fingerling Potato Tacos: Use fingerling potatoes as a filling for vegetarian tacos. Roast or sauté them with onions and spices, then serve with toppings like avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a fun, flavorful meal.

Storage and Handling Tips
To ensure your fingerling potatoes stay fresh and flavorful, follow these simple storage tips:

• Storage: Store fingerling potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can alter the texture and flavor. They should last for up to a week or two when stored properly.
• Handling: Before cooking, wash fingerling potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Due to their delicate skin, they generally don’t need to be peeled, but you can if you prefer. Simply scrub them under cold water before cooking to remove any dirt.

Best For:

• Roasting, boiling, sautéing, grilling, salads, soups, and hashes.
• Ideal for gourmet meals, elegant side dishes, and comfort food with a twist.

Fun Fact: The small size of fingerling potatoes makes them perfect for meal prep. They can be prepped in bulk, cooked in various ways, and used throughout the week in different dishes, making them both a time-saver and a crowd-pleaser.