POTATOES

​With all the news about food costs, food security and other impending global forecasts it has got me thinking about which foods would have to feature as must haves in our diet. Not so much from a gloomy perspective but one of new found respect. The humble potato may have its day once again.
 
New potatoes are beginning to feature here at The Urban Co-op and it is fair to say they have been eagerly awaited. Jim Cronin’s potatoes are like himself – legendary but did you know that Clare County soil does produce particularly good spuds? At a recent Burren Food event it was a pleasure to celebrate the foods of the area and the local potato featured highly. Of course we have long associations in Ireland for the role of the potato and its successive year crop failures with famine, however this root vegetable also sustained and nourished populations for generations too.  Our fascination with the exotic carbs of rice and pasta had displaced potatoes for quite a while but perhaps it is time for a rethink on what we have growing all around us?
 
Being a novice gardener I have been amazed at the return I have gained from planting this food. Stray seed provides a few surprises in the poly-tunnel year after year. This year they will all be harvested and consumed with the respect they have earned for always being there.  Yes! There will be butter involved..!


Anne Maher