Brazil: The Cupid potato and Brazilian agribusiness

The Cupido potato is much more than just pretty; it offers a texture and flavor that make it incredibly versatile and a true gem among fresh potatoes.

The growing appreciation for gastronomy and the search for unique ingredients have catapulted the Cupid potato to the forefront. This variety not only delights the eye but also simplifies the preparation of sophisticated dishes, making it a favorite among both chefs and home cooks.

What makes Cupid potatoes so special?

The main characteristic of this variety lies in its unmistakable appearance. Unlike the traditional English potato, the Cupido potato has a vibrant two-toned skin: pinkish-red with bright yellow spots that remain even after cooking. Its shape tends to be oval and more elongated, giving it an exceptional visual appeal in the final dish.

Focus on flavor and texture

In culinary terms, the Cupid potato stands out for having a medium dry matter content. What does this mean in practice?

It doesn’t fall apart: Its flesh is firm and yellow, ensuring that the potato retains its shape even after being cooked, sliced, or sautéed. Mild flavor: It has a mild, slightly earthy flavor with a touch of sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with herbs, butter, and more intense spices.

This combination of firmness and flavor positions it as one of the best potatoes for preparations where the structure of the ingredient is crucial.

From field to table: the production and growth process of Cupido.

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Although the Cupido potato was developed in the Netherlands (as a result of crossbreeding in 1995), it has adapted very well to Brazilian growing conditions. Its production is concentrated in Brazil’s main potato-producing regions, such as southern Minas Gerais, the state of São Paulo (particularly Vargem Grande do Sul), Paraná, and other areas with favorable climates.

Production cycle: an early variety

The Cupido potato is classified as an early-maturing variety. This means it reaches harvest time more quickly compared to other varieties.

The total growth and maturation time, from planting the seed tuber to harvest, is around 90 to 120 days (three to four months).

During this cycle:

• 15 to 30 days: Emergence phase (the plant emerges from the soil).
• Ripening: Harvesting takes place when the plant reaches maturity, which is evidenced by the yellowing and natural drying of the stems. This is the ideal time to ensure maximum quality and the desired dry matter content of the Cupido potato.

The Cupid potato in the hands of a producer.

Versatility in the kitchen: how to serve Cupid potatoes?

Thanks to its firmness and resistance, the Cupid potato is incredibly versatile and prevents the problem of potatoes falling apart in the pan.

• Sophisticated salads: This is the ideal option for potato salads, whether with classic mayonnaise or more elaborate vinaigrettes. It absorbs the dressing without turning into mush, guaranteeing a perfect presentation.
• Baked or grilled: When baked or grilled, the Cupid potato develops a slightly crispy skin that contrasts with its soft interior. Preserving the colorful skin gives the side dish a spectacular visual appeal.
• Gratins and Rösti: Because it retains its shape, it is excellent for gratins, where the slices must remain intact, and for preparing Rösti (Swiss potato casserole), which requires that the grated tubers do not fall apart.

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Chef’s tip: To fully appreciate the visual appeal of the Cupid potato, cook and serve it with the skin on. Besides adding texture, the skin is where most of the color pigments and fiber are concentrated.

The Cupid potato and Brazilian agribusiness

For growers, investing in the Cupido potato variety is a smart strategy. Its premium character allows for differentiated market positioning, satisfying a growing demand for quality and variety. ABBIN recommends careful management of this variety to ensure that its color and uniformity characteristics are maintained, thus raising the standard across the entire fresh potato value chain. The Cupido potato’s tendency to produce larger tubers makes it especially valuable for the fresh produce market.

Look for this two-tone gem at your favorite supermarket or farmers market and discover why the Cupid potato is winning over food lovers across the country!

Want to learn more about this and other topics related to the potato market in Brazil and around the world? Visit  ABBIN’s website   and official social media channels to stay up to date.

We also recommend listening to the podcast  A Voz da Batata (The Voice of the Potato  ), produced by ABBIN, which analyzes the most important topics in the potato market on a weekly basis.