News reports have been coming in about major supermarkets putting purchase limits in place for frozen potato products. The obvious conclusion would be that this means we’re a nation sorely short on spuds, but this isn’t necessarily the case. 

Yes, there is a bit of potato shortage going on, but there are still enough to go around when it comes to the fresh stuff. According to Catherine Ramage – one half of the legendary Spud Sisters, who are experts in sourcing the best of the best for top restaurants – the colder-than-average weather in the past few months has pushed back the harvest, as the spuds in-ground need more time to grow. And the ones that have been harvested have been smaller, which affects overall yield – which will have a bigger impact on mass-producers of potato products, ie, frozen chip producers.

But when it boils down to your weeknight roast taters, you shouldn’t stress. Just head to where you will always find the best produce anyway – your local farmers’ market. 

“When it comes to a roasting potato, you want a nice floury variety,” Ramage says. “It will give you a crispy outside, and will be lovely and fluffy on the inside. At the moment, the best varieties are Maris Piper, and Exton. They’re beautiful roasters, with a creamy texture.”

Sebago potatoes will be coming through soon as well, and Ramage also recommends Prince of Orange – a late harvest potato with an orange skin and gorgeous yellow flesh. 

So, now you can relax. Just head to your farmers’ market and have a chat with the spud man (or woman) at the stall. They can give you all the advice you need, along with the best kind of spuds for your 2023 weeknight dinner roster.

Related story: 25 recipes for crispy, crunchy roast potatoes