Cupido Potato Supplier

Quick Overview

Cupido is an early-maturing, yellow-fleshed table potato variety prized for its excellent culinary qualities and visual appeal. This waxy-type potato features smooth, thin golden skin and firm, buttery yellow flesh that holds its shape well during cooking. Developed primarily for fresh market consumption, Cupido offers a delicate, slightly sweet flavor profile that enhances both simple and gourmet preparations. The variety shows particular strength in Mediterranean climates but adapts well to various growing conditions across Europe and beyond. With its attractive appearance and reliable performance, Cupido has become a favorite among growers, retailers, and chefs seeking a premium early-season potato.

Origin & History

Cupido was developed in the Netherlands during the late 1990s by breeding specialists aiming to create an early, high-quality table potato. It emerged from crosses between Dutch and Mediterranean varieties, combining Northern European yield potential with Southern European culinary characteristics. The variety was officially introduced to the market in 2002 and quickly gained popularity in Spain, Italy, and North Africa. Its name “Cupido” (Cupid) reflects its heart-healthy properties and the “love” it receives from consumers for its taste. Over two decades, Cupido has maintained its status as a premium early potato, with plantings expanding to over 15 countries worldwide.

Specifications

Cupido potatoes typically contain 12-15% starch content, classifying them as firmly waxy with low to medium dry matter (18-20%). The oval to round-oval tubers average 80-150 grams in weight, with very shallow eyes and exceptionally smooth golden-yellow skin. This early variety reaches maturity in just 70-90 days after planting, allowing for early harvests and quick market turnover. The plants demonstrate good resistance to common scab and moderate tolerance to late blight, though they require protection from potato virus Y. Cupido’s thin skin and uniform shape result in minimal peeling waste, making it efficient for both home and commercial kitchens.

Key Characteristics

1. Superior Culinary Quality: The firm, moist texture holds shape perfectly when boiled, steamed, or roasted, while developing a creamy mouthfeel.
2. Early Maturity: One of the first marketable varieties available each season, giving growers a competitive edge.
3. Visual Appeal: Glossy golden skin and vibrant yellow flesh create an attractive presentation for premium markets.
4. Disease Resistance: Shows natural resistance to common scab and good tolerance to heat stress compared to other early varieties.
5. Versatile Growth: Performs well in both traditional field production and protected cultivation systems like tunnels or greenhouses.

Best Uses

Cupido is primarily an all-around table potato excelling in boiling, steaming, and roasting applications where shape retention is crucial. Its waxy texture makes it ideal for potato salads, gratins, and Mediterranean-style dishes where slices or cubes must maintain integrity. While not suitable for chips or fries due to low starch content, it works well for pan-fried or sautéed preparations. Some gourmet producers use young Cupido potatoes for premium canned or vacuum-packed products. The variety’s delicate flavor shines when prepared simply with herbs, olive oil, or butter, making it a chef’s favorite for seasonal menus. Home cooks appreciate its minimal peeling requirements and consistent cooking performance across various methods.