When it comes to potatoes, there are many varieties to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Two popular types of potatoes that often get confused with each other are Yukon Gold and new potatoes. While they may seem similar, they are, in fact, quite different. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of potatoes and explore the differences between Yukon Gold potatoes and new potatoes.
What Are Yukon Gold Potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are a popular variety of potato that originated in Canada in the 1960s. They are known for their buttery yellow flesh and smooth, thin skin that’s often left unwashed to preserve its natural sweetness. Yukon Golds are considered a mature potato variety, which means they are harvested when they are fully grown and their skins are set.
Characteristics of Yukon Gold Potatoes:
- Buttery yellow flesh
- Smooth, thin skin
- High starch content, making them great for baking and mashing
- Mild, sweet flavor
- Mature potato variety, harvested when fully grown
What Are New Potatoes?
New potatoes, on the other hand, are a type of potato that’s harvested before it reaches full maturity. They are typically picked when they are still young and tender, usually within 10 weeks of planting. New potatoes have a thin, delicate skin that’s often left on, and their flesh is waxy and firm. They are prized for their sweet, earthy flavor and tender texture.
Characteristics of New Potatoes:
- Thin, delicate skin
- Waxy flesh
- Harvested before full maturity
- Sweet, earthy flavor
- Tender texture
The Main Differences Between Yukon Gold and New Potatoes
So, what sets Yukon Gold potatoes apart from new potatoes? Here are the main differences:
Difference in Harvesting Time
One of the most significant differences between Yukon Gold and new potatoes is when they are harvested. Yukon Gold potatoes are harvested when they are fully grown, typically around 100-120 days after planting. New potatoes, on the other hand, are harvested much earlier, usually within 10 weeks of planting.
Difference in Skin and Flesh
Yukon Gold potatoes have a smooth, thin skin, while new potatoes have a thin, delicate skin that’s often more prone to bruising. The flesh of Yukon Gold potatoes is also starchier and more prone to breaking down when cooked, making them ideal for baking and mashing. New potatoes, with their waxy flesh, hold their shape better when cooked and are often boiled or steamed.
Difference in Flavor and Texture
Yukon Gold potatoes have a mild, sweet flavor, while new potatoes have a sweeter, earthier flavor. The texture of Yukon Gold potatoes is fluffy and tender, while new potatoes are firmer and waxy.
Cooking and Preparation Methods
When it comes to cooking and preparing Yukon Gold potatoes and new potatoes, there are some key differences to keep in mind.
Cooking Yukon Gold Potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways, including:
- Baking: Yukon Golds are ideal for baking, as they yield a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. Simply pierce with a fork a few times and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Mashing: Yukon Golds make excellent mashed potatoes, as they are high in starch and break down easily. Simply boil or steam until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and seasonings.
- Roasting: Yukon Golds can be roasted in the oven with some olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious side dish.
Cooking New Potatoes
New potatoes, with their delicate skin and waxy flesh, are best cooked using methods that preserve their texture and flavor. Some popular ways to cook new potatoes include:
- Boiling: New potatoes can be boiled in salted water until tender, then drained and served with butter and herbs.
- Steaming: Steaming is a great way to cook new potatoes without losing their delicate flavor and texture. Simply steam until tender, then serve with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley.
- Grilling: New potatoes can be grilled over medium heat with some olive oil and seasonings for a smoky, charred flavor.
Conclusion
While Yukon Gold potatoes and new potatoes may seem similar at first glance, they are, in fact, quite different. Yukon Golds are mature potatoes with a smooth skin, starchy flesh, and a mild flavor, making them ideal for baking and mashing. New potatoes, on the other hand, are harvested young and have a thin, delicate skin, waxy flesh, and a sweet, earthy flavor, making them perfect for boiling, steaming, and grilling.
So, are Yukon Gold potatoes new potatoes? The answer is a resounding no! While both types of potatoes are delicious in their own right, they are distinct varieties with unique characteristics and uses. Next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, be sure to try out both Yukon Gold and new potatoes to experience their differences for yourself.
What are Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are a popular variety of potato that originated in North America. They are known for their buttery, yellow flesh and thin, gold-colored skin. They are often considered to be a premium potato variety, prized for their rich, slightly sweet flavor and smooth texture.
Yukon Gold potatoes are also relatively small to medium in size, with a compact, rounded shape. This makes them well-suited for boiling, roasting, or grilling whole, as well as for using in salads, soups, and other dishes where a delicate potato texture is desired.
Are Yukon Gold potatoes the same as new potatoes?
No, Yukon Gold potatoes are not the same as new potatoes. While both types of potatoes are popular for their delicate flavor and texture, they belong to different categories of potatoes. New potatoes are immature potatoes that are harvested before they reach full maturity, typically within 10-12 weeks of planting. They have a thin, tender skin and a waxy, firm flesh.
In contrast, Yukon Gold potatoes are mature potatoes that are harvested after they have reached full maturity, typically after 70-100 days of planting. They have a thicker skin and a starchier, more buttery flesh than new potatoes. While both types of potatoes can be delicious, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
What are new potatoes?
New potatoes, also known as “baby potatoes” or “salad potatoes”, are immature potatoes that are harvested before they reach full maturity. They are typically harvested within 10-12 weeks of planting, when they are still small and tender. New potatoes have a thin, delicate skin that is easy to pierce, and a waxy, firm flesh that is low in starch.
New potatoes are prized for their sweet, earthy flavor and crunchy texture. They are often used in salads, boiled or steamed as a side dish, or roasted to bring out their natural sweetness. Because they are harvested before they reach full maturity, new potatoes have a shorter shelf life than mature potatoes like Yukon Golds.
Can I use Yukon Gold potatoes as a substitute for new potatoes?
While Yukon Gold potatoes are not the same as new potatoes, they can be used as a substitute in some recipes. However, keep in mind that they will have a different flavor and texture than new potatoes. Yukon Golds are starchier and have a more buttery flavor than new potatoes, which can affect the overall character of the dish.
If you’re looking for a substitute for new potatoes, Yukon Golds can work well in recipes where a slightly firmer, more starchy potato is desired. For example, you can use them in potato salads, boiled or mashed potatoes, or roasted potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time and method according to the recipe and the desired texture.
How do I cook Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways. They can be boiled, mashed, roasted, grilled, sautéed, or baked. To bring out their natural sweetness, try roasting them in the oven with some olive oil, salt, and pepper.
For boiling, scrub the potatoes clean and chop them into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large pot of salted water, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and serve.
Can I grow my own Yukon Gold potatoes?
Yes, you can grow your own Yukon Gold potatoes! Yukon Golds are a popular variety of potato that can be grown in many regions. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Potato seed tubers can be purchased from most garden centers or online.
To grow Yukon Golds, plant the seed tubers in the spring, about 2-4 inches deep, with the “eyes” facing upwards. Space them about 12 inches apart, and water regularly. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. After about 70-100 days, the plants will start to yellow and die back, indicating that the potatoes are ready to harvest.
Are Yukon Gold potatoes nutritious?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes are a nutritious food! They are a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and several important vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and folate. One medium-sized Yukon Gold potato (about 5 ounces) provides approximately 110 calories, 2 grams of protein, and 2 grams of fiber.
Yukon Golds are also relatively low on the glycemic index, making them a good choice for people with diabetes or those who want to manage their blood sugar levels. Additionally, they contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that have been linked to several potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.