EYEWITNESS
France's primeur potatoes
Officially the world's priciest potato, La Bonnotte is the pride of Île de Noirmoutier, a French island known for its salt marshes. But is it worth the money? Words: Carolyn Boyd
Potatoes don't usually come with much fanfare, but on the Île de Noirmoutier, off the Atlantic coast of France, the spuds are special. Thanks to the island's gentle microclimate and soil fertilized by seaweed, the 'primeur' (first crop), harvested between mid-March and the end of July, is eagerly welcomed by locals, visitors, and chefs. When I arrive at L'Étier restaurant, near the island's main town of Noirmoutier-en-Île, chef Patrice Millasseau has prepared a feast of potato dishes. There's smooth mashed potato, deep-fried pommes dauphines, his signature potato stuffed with snail in herb butter, and even a glass of his tato milkshake flavoured with the island's saffron. Every creation has the sweet, nutty flavour of the potatoes at its base, and each one is delicious.
Each of the island's potato varieties is harvested at a different time during the season; they include La Sirtéma, with its golden, papery skin and sweet, floury flesh, and La Lady Christl - long, golden, and very versatile. "I make lots of recipes with the island's potatoes because they have a texture you don't find elsewhere," says Patrice. When I tuck in to a potato cake made with La Sirtéma, I'm astonished at how light it is. "More patissiers should use it instead of flour," says Patrice.
This story is from the Atumn 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the Atumn 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The craftspeople of Sarawak
From ancient pottery to embroidery fit for Miss World, meet the producers championing traditional artisanal creations in Malaysia's island region.
ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES
From ice skating and cross-country skiing to snowy train rides and cosy cabins stays, there are many memorable ways to make the most of the European winter
GOLDEN YEARS
Join the celebrations century of statehood as the island marks half a with fireworks and parades
A TASTE OF The Philippines
A TRIO OF BIG, BOLD FLAVOURS DOMINATES THIS ARCHIPELAGO NATION'S UNIQUE CUISINE
WHERE TO STAY Helsinki
FINLAND'S CAPITAL HAS AN OFFBEAT SIDE THAT SHINES THROUGH IN ITS CREATIVE HOTEL SCENE
A YEAR OF ADVENTURE
Make 2024 one to remember with these epic trips, putting fairytale castles, cultural exchange and slow travel front and centre
Bear Grylls
THE TV PRESENTER AND FORMER SAS OFFICER ON RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL, COMFORT ZONES AND EXPLORING THE WORLD ON HIS DOORSTEP
BOSTON
In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.
BALI
Known for its beaches, jungles and colourful temples, the Indonesian island of Bali is also home to a vibrant and hugely varied offering of local dishes, from grilled octopus with starfruit to rich Padang-style curry
MANCHESTER
A spirit of rebellious creativity infuses the northern city, with old factories turned into artists' studios and a unique sense of style on display throughout