Yukon Gold potatoes, introduced in 1980, are a popular cultivar. They feature thin, smooth skin and yellow flesh. When cooked, their flesh becomes creamy and tender, offering a rich, buttery, and earthy flavor. This versatile potato was developed in Canada in the 1960s by cross-breeding a North American variety with a wild South American yellow-fleshed potato.
Understanding Potato Sizing Standards
A universal “size chart” for potatoes does not exist, but rather through industry grading and market classifications. Potato sizing typically involves measuring diameter, weight, or counting the number of potatoes per bag. Industrial grading systems classify potatoes into various sizes to standardize commercial sales and ensure consistency.
Common terms for potato sizes include “creamer,” “A-size,” “B-size,” “baker,” and “jumbo.” Creamer potatoes are generally small, often less than 1.5 inches in diameter. “A-size” potatoes are typically larger, ranging from 1.75 to 2.5 inches in diameter. These classifications provide general guidelines, though specific dimensions can vary slightly among regions or suppliers.
Yukon Gold Potato Size Categories and Culinary Uses
Yukon Gold potatoes are available in various sizes, each suited for specific culinary applications.
Small Yukon Golds
Small Yukon Golds, often called creamer potatoes, are generally less than 1.5 inches in diameter. These potatoes are ideal for roasting whole, boiling, or adding to stews and salads. They cook quickly, maintain their shape, and allow for even cooking, resulting in a tender, creamy bite.
Medium Yukon Golds
Medium Yukon Golds typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches in diameter. They are well-suited for mashing, roasting, or other cooking applications. Their medium starch content contributes to a creamy texture when mashed, and their ability to hold shape makes them suitable for gratins or casseroles. Roasting medium Yukon Golds often yields crispy edges with tender centers.
Large Yukon Golds
Larger Yukon Gold potatoes, often categorized as “bakers” or “jumbo,” can exceed 2.5 inches in diameter. These potatoes are excellent for baking whole, making fries, or preparing large portions of mashed potatoes. Their size ensures even cooking when baked. Larger chunks also allow for a desirable contrast between a crispy exterior and a creamy interior when roasted.
Factors Influencing Size and Selection Advice
The size of Yukon Gold potatoes is influenced by several environmental and agricultural factors during growth. Soil quality, including structure and drainage, plays a role in tuber development. Consistent water availability is important for optimal tuber bulking, as fluctuations can lead to uneven growth. Nutrient levels, particularly potassium, can influence tuber size, though excessive nitrogen may delay development and affect quality.
When selecting Yukon Gold potatoes, consider their intended culinary use. For dishes requiring whole potatoes that hold their shape, such as roasted creamer potatoes or potato salads, smaller to medium sizes are preferable. For mashed or baked potatoes, larger tubers often provide better yield and texture. Always choose firm potatoes with smooth, unbruised skin to ensure freshness and quality.