Patata
Potato
Introduced into Europe by the Spanish, the patata has become an integral part of the Spanish diet and is, of course, the prime ingredient in the tortilla.
There are at least 150 varieties available in Spain and they can be categorised by colour and use.
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Patatas rojas (red skinned potatoes): Cóndor, Red Pontiac, Desirée y Astérix.
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Patatas amarillas (yellow): Étoile du León, Jaerla, Eureka, Kennebec, Monalisa, Spunta, Obelix.
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Patatas blancas (white): Pentland, Xantia y Frisia.
In terms of use, patatas are categorised as follows:
para freír (to fry)
para cocer (to boil)
para asar (to roast)
New potatoes are know as patatas nuevas or tempranas
The Monalisa is a favourite all round variety