A taste of organic potatoes in Yunnan

It is estimated that in China one potato in ten is from Yunnan Province. Yunnan people have a crush on potatoes and are passionate in cooking them in different ways.

The mountainous and semi-mountainous landform as well as the unique climate make Yunnan very suitable for potato planting throughout the year. Potato industry is important to Yunnan, especially in terms of poverty alleviation. 

On Feb 23, 32 tons of high-quality organic winter potatoes were transported to Beijing from Lancang County , Yunnan, marking the success of the poverty alleviation demonstration project of Chinese Academy of Engineering. According to statistics, the value of winter potatoes per mu(about 0.067 hectare) can reach nearly 10,000 yuan.

To breed potatoes more scientifically and control pests more efficiently, Yunnan Normal University has set up a unique college of potatoes. Besides, many Yunnan companies have now been involved in deep processing of potatoes.

In cooking potatoes, there is always a lot to talk. In addition to stir-frying them with green peppers and pickles, Yunnan people also make potato cakes. Fried potatoes are children’s favorite snacks, and a dish called “Grandma potato” is one of the top picks. It is mashed potato stir-fried with chopped green onions and chili. The dish gets its name because it is so soft that even elderly people can eat it. 

Editor: Wang Shixue