Comber Earlies facts for kids
Comber Earlies are special potatoes grown around the town of Comber, in County Down, Northern Ireland. They are also called new season Comber potatoes. These potatoes have a special status called "protected geographical indication" (PGI) since 2012. This means only potatoes grown in a specific way in the Comber area can use this name. They are grown by a group called the Comber Earlies Growers Co-Operative Society Limited.
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What Makes Comber Earlies Special?
Comber Earlies are young potatoes picked between early May and late July. They are not a specific type of potato, but rather any potato variety grown in this special way and place. Their name comes only from where they are grown.
Where Do They Grow?
These potatoes grow in the area around Comber. This place has a unique climate, called a microclimate. It is protected by the Mourne Mountains and the Ards Peninsula. The saltwater of Strangford Lough also helps protect the plants from frost. This special environment allows the potatoes to be harvested earlier than in other places.
Why Do They Taste Different?
Because of the unique growing conditions, Comber Earlies have a special sweet, nutty taste. This flavor is part of why they are so well-known and loved.
A Bit of History
Potatoes from Comber have a long history. They are linked to the Ulster Scots settlers who came to Ireland long ago. These settlers were part of the Plantation of Ulster. The very first time potatoes were mentioned in writing as being grown in Ireland was in 1606. This mention specifically talked about potatoes being grown in Comber.
