Royals in the Kitchen: King Edward Potatoes

Who was King Edward VII?

Edward VII (Albert Edward; 9 November 1841 – 6 May 1910) was King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions and Emperor of India from 22 January 1901 until his death on 6 May 1910. Edward fostered good relations between Great Britain and other European countries, especially France, for which he was popularly called "Peacemaker", but his relationship with his nephew, Wilhelm II of Germany, was poor. Edward presciently suspected that Wilhelm would precipitate a war, and four years after Edward's death, World War I brought an end to the Edwardian way of life.

King Edward Potatoes

A common British type of potato which has a light-coloured skin with pink colouration. It is mostly oval in shape with a floury texture and shallow eyes. The flowers of the plant are purple with white tipped petals.
This potato variety was developed by John Butler of Scotter, Lincolnshire, and introduced to Britain in 1902. It is one of the oldest surviving varieties in Europe. The Coronation of King Edward VII in 1902 coincided with the introduction of this variety of potato and its name is believed to originate as a ‘commemoration’ of this occasion.
The King Edward has many culinary uses and is renowned for its light fluffy texture, for this reason it is particularly suitable for roasting and baking although it is also suitable for chipping, sauté and steaming.

Did you know?

The famous English cook and television presenter Delia Smith has identified the King Edward as being the best potato with which to make gnocchi.