Co Antrim farm producing famine potato

Published Monday, 11 March 2013
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A distinctive variety of potato which has not been seen in Ireland for over 170 years is being produced again in Co Antrim.

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The Lumper potato was a popular staple food during the 19th century, as it could be grown easily in poor soil.

But when the potato blight took hold in the 1840s, it largely disappeared in Ireland.

More than a million people are believed to have died in the Great Famine from starvation and disease as their only food source, potato crops, failed.

Around two million more were forced to emigrate.

But its legacy hasn't put off farmer Michael McKillop, from Glens of Antrim Potatoes, based in Cushendall.

He said he was attracted by the spud as he wanted to offer a more unusual choice, and found it has a pleasing taste.

Its texture and flavour is described as half-way between a waxy Jersey Royal, and more floury varieties like the King Edward.

It has taken five years for the crops to be ready for sale for the first time since it was wiped out.

The potato hits the supermarket shelves this week and will be available across the UK by the end of the month.

© UTV News
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1 Comments
Happy Face in Belfast wrote (72 days ago):
I have thought for years that all potatoes where called LUMPER SPUDS, but now i know that my wife cant cook. Because every time she makes dinner the spuds get LUMPIER and LUMPIER. And if she reads this, I will be MASH. If anyone can take this on board and maybe start a wee cooking class,I will get the wife to go. LOL.
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