Have you ever spotted a bag of purple potato chips at the store and wondered what the deal was? Maybe you picked it up, turned it over, and thought: are these real? They are. Purple potato chips are made from real purple potatoes, and once you try one, the vibrant color suddenly feels completely natural. This guide covers everything you want to know about purple potatoes and the chips made from them, from what they taste like to how to cook with them at home.
What are purple potatoes?
Purple potatoes are a naturally occurring variety of potato with striking violet or indigo-hued flesh. They belong to the Solanum tuberosum family, the same botanical family as the everyday white or yellow potato, but with a flavor and appearance all their own.
Their vivid color comes from anthocyanins, a group of naturally occurring plant pigments and antioxidants also found in blueberries, red cabbage, and blackberries. Purple potatoes originated in South America, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years, and today they show up in grocery stores, farmers markets, and restaurant menus around the world.
What do purple potatoes taste like?
Purple potatoes taste like potatoes, but with a little something extra. Expect the familiar earthy, starchy base you know from regular spuds, layered with mildly nutty undertones and a subtle natural sweetness. Their texture tends to be slightly denser and creamier than a standard russet, making them satisfying whether roasted, mashed, or sliced into chips.
That nuanced flavor is part of what makes purple potato chips so craveable. When thinly sliced and cooked until crispy, those nutty, slightly sweet notes come through beautifully, especially paired with bold seasoning.
Purple potatoes vs. white potatoes
Both are members of the same potato family, but there are some meaningful differences worth knowing.
- Flavor: Purple potatoes have a mildly nutty, subtly sweet taste. White potatoes have a more neutral, starchy flavor.
- Color: The deep violet flesh of a purple potato comes from anthocyanins, pigments that are not present in white potato varieties.
- Glycemic index: Purple potatoes generally have a lower glycemic index compared to white potatoes, meaning they tend to have a gentler effect on blood sugar levels.
- Antioxidant content: The anthocyanins responsible for that purple hue are potent antioxidants. You can read more about the differences in our sweet potato chips breakdown.
Nutritional highlights of purple potatoes
Purple potatoes bring a solid lineup of nutrients to the table. Here is a quick look at what they contain:
- Anthocyanins: The pigments that give purple potatoes their color are also well-studied antioxidants associated with a range of potential health benefits.
- Vitamin C: Purple potatoes are a source of vitamin C, which plays a role in immune function and collagen formation.
- Vitamin B6: Supports brain function and metabolism.
- Potassium: An important mineral for fluid balance and nerve function.
- Dietary fiber: Supports digestion and helps keep you feeling satisfied.
As with any food, purple potatoes are best enjoyed as part of a varied, balanced diet.
Ways to eat and enjoy purple potatoes
One of the best things about purple potatoes is how versatile they are. Here are some delicious ways to put them to work in your kitchen.
Purple mashed potatoes
Boil or steam purple potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, your preferred milk, and seasonings. The result is a naturally stunning side dish that tastes just as comforting as the classic version.
Roasted purple potatoes
Toss cubed purple potatoes in avocado oil, season generously with herbs and spices, and roast at high heat until the edges are crispy and the centers are creamy. Simple and satisfying.
Purple potato salad
Boil and dice purple potatoes, then toss with mustard, herbs, celery, red onion, and your dressing of choice. The color alone makes this a showstopper at any table.
Purple potato gnocchi
Make homemade gnocchi with purple potato dough for a naturally violet-hued pasta. Serve with a simple herb sauce or a classic marinara.
Scalloped purple potatoes
Layer thinly sliced purple potatoes with cheese, cream, and fresh herbs in a baking dish for a rich, layered casserole that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Purple potato soup
Blend cooked purple potatoes with leeks, garlic, and vegetable broth for a velvety, vibrantly colored bowl of soup. Finish with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of chives.
Purple potato fries
Cut into fry shapes, season with your favorite spices, and bake or air-fry until golden and crispy. A fun twist on a classic.
Purple potato tacos
Roast or sauté diced purple potatoes and fill soft tortillas with them alongside salsa, guacamole, and your other favorite toppings.
Purple potato and kale hash
Sauté diced purple potatoes with kale, onions, and your choice of protein for a colorful, filling breakfast or brunch hash.
Purple potato chips
Slice purple potatoes paper thin, cook until crispy, and season to taste. Kettle-cooked purple potato chips deliver a satisfying crunch with that distinctly nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Whether you make them at home or find a bag at the store, they are a genuinely fun snack experience.
Purple potato FAQs
Are there purple sweet potatoes?
Yes, purple sweet potatoes are real and worth seeking out. They have a deep violet or purple flesh and a mildly sweet flavor, similar to orange sweet potatoes but with their own unique character. They work beautifully in both sweet and savory preparations, from pies and puddings to salads and roasted sides. If you want to explore more about the broader sweet potato family, our guide to the types of sweet potatoes is a great place to start.
Are purple potatoes genetically modified or artificially colored?
No. Purple potatoes are not genetically modified or artificially colored. Their natural hue comes entirely from anthocyanins, the same plant pigments found in other purple and blue foods. That color is completely natural.
Can I eat purple potatoes with the skin on?
Absolutely. The skin is edible and adds texture and extra fiber to the dish. Just give them a thorough wash before cooking.
Are there different varieties of purple potatoes?
Yes, there are several. Some of the most common varieties include Purple Majesty, Purple Viking, and All Blue. Each has its own slightly different flavor profile and texture, but all share that signature purple flesh.
Where can I find purple potatoes?
Purple potatoes are increasingly available at mainstream grocery stores, farmers markets, and specialty food retailers. Look for them in the produce section near other specialty potato varieties. If your local store does not carry them, farmers markets are often a reliable source, especially in late summer and fall.
The takeaway
Purple potato chips start with something genuinely interesting: a real potato variety with a rich history, a distinctive flavor, and a color that makes every snack moment a little more fun. Whether you are slicing and roasting them at home, tossing them into a salad, or reaching for a bag of kettle-cooked chips, purple potatoes bring something fresh to the table.
Snacking and cooking with real food ingredients is always worth exploring, and purple potatoes are a great reminder that the produce aisle holds more variety and flavor than we often give it credit for. Embrace the color, enjoy the crunch, and keep discovering.
Read next: A Guide to the Types of Sweet Potatoes
