US Fingerling Potato Segment continues to grow

On the back of seeing a growing need for specialty potatoes and onions in the market, Colorado based Strohauer Farms started allocating more of their resources into this area. This was back in 2006, shortly after the company also started growing organic produce.

Amber Strohauer, in charge of Business Development:
 

"We are always striving to increase our quality first and foremost, but then also our production. We continually grow every year."

"We are trying a couple different fingerling varieties this season as we continue to see growth in the fingerling potato segment. We've increased acreage, including organic. We expect to produce the high-quality potatoes and onions our consumers rely upon this season."

The company currently operates out of Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma. The southern states allow the growing season to begin a few weeks prior to the season in Colorado. This year's growing season is expected to began in mid-March with harvest starting in mid-July.

Amber Strohauer:
 

"We have early varieties in both the fingerlings and russets, which allow us to plant early, as well as late varieties that allow us to plant and harvest them later in the season.

Banana Fingerlings

Banana Fingerlings

The superstar of fingerlings and a favorite among chefs, the banana fingerling is heralded for excellent flavor and versatility.

This yellow, banana-shaped, waxy-type tuber with firm texture is great baked, boiled or steamed. Varieties include Russian, Austrian Crescent and LaRatte.

Strohauer Farms grows both organic and conventional of each of these varieties

Banana fingerlings are still the frontrunner when it comes to what consumers purchase most frequently in this category. Although, Amber said that purple varieties are becoming more and more popular each year, especially this past season.

Amber Strohauer:
 

"Many nutritional thought leaders, such as Dr. Oz, continue to push the antioxidant power of purple potatoes. The color also attracts a leading segment of buyers who seek to create interesting, flavorful and nutritious meals."

Purple Fingerlings

Purple Fingerlings

This heirloom variety has beautiful purple skin, bluish or lavender flesh and an earthy flavor. Long cooking will diminish the color. The intense color is preserved best by microwaving; however, steaming and baking are also excellent preparation methods.

Varieties include Purple Peruvian and Fiesta.

Strohauer Farms grows both organic and conventional of each of these varieties.

Strohauer supplies markets across the nation, but as more consumers demand more local products from their grocery stores, they are increasingly servicing that demand in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma.

Amber Strohauer:
 

"Organic purchases continue to increase each year. While consumers may not buy all organic, they may purchase a few organic items each shopping trip. More and more grocery stores are now offering organic produce to their customers."

Red Fingerlings

Red Fingerlings

A gourmet, quality fingerling with satin, purple-pink skin and yellow flesh with an interior ring of pink when cut across.

This fingerling produces good-quality, medium sized tubers, which are a great addition to any plate. Varieties include French, Red Thumb and Amarosa. The Amarosa is an all-red potato.

Strohauer Farms grows both organic and conventional of each of these varieties.

Rose Finn Apple Fingerlings

Rose Finn Apple Fingerlings

The classic, European fingerling with its slender shape, rose-colored skin, smooth, firm, yellow flesh, waxy, moist consistent texture and distinct eyes.

This savory delight is favored as a puree to thicken soups, sauces and gravies but also makes a delectable roasting potato.

Strohauer Farms grows both organic and conventional of each of these varities.

Purple Majesta

Purple Majesta

Oval shape with blue skin and flesh. The deepest purple of any other varieties. Rich in the antioxidant, anthocyanin, which has been shown to boost the immune system and aid in the prevention of certain cancers.

To maintain the color, the best method of cooking is to sauté. The rich color also lends an interesting take on the traditional mashed potatoes or potato salads.

Strohauer Farms can provide both organic and conventional.

Along with potatoes, the company also grows onions, with a focus on specialty varieties, which are all available in organic. They grow pearls, boilers, cipollinis and shallots alongside the traditional white, gold and red "mainstay" organic onions.