I bought 500g for �2.49 in Tesco Express, thought I'd give myself an expensive treat, and they were very disappointing. There were similar threads on here last year. Jersey Royals don't seem to be what they used to be.
The E.U. decreed in it's infinite wisdom, (or crass stupidity as most of us know it as) that the traditional compost of some sort of seaweed was hereby banned so the taste of Jersey Royals is a thing of the past.
Now they taste like any other spuds but at 4 times the price.
I noticed last year that they didn't taste the same. Now I know why - Sadly I don't think I'll buy any this year until they get a lot cheaper. I used to treat myself early as they used to be so good, I could eat them on their own with butter - yummy!
kev1 thanks for that info, I was disappointed last year, and now this year. It used to be a major treat, the first Jersey Royals. I won't be buying any more until the price drops (a lot). They are very pleasant, but no longer extra special.
If you live in the North West go to your local Booths supermarket. The Jersey Royals from there are absolutely delicious. Though I agree (after trying them) that the ones from the big supermarkets don't taste any different to any other new potato.
Slight off topic but i've found most veg from Tesco's disappointing, I've had some Jersey Royals from a local fruit and veg seller and they tasted much better.
When I was at Uni, used to get a pound of Jersey Royals and a pound of Steak - those were the days.
Last year I posted a comment about Jersey potatoes and mentioned that Jersey farmers were no longer allowed to use the sea-weed for manuring and was soon rebuffed by an AB saying that farmers were allowed to use it. So, whats the truth? I agree `Jerseys` don`t taste like they used to. Jerseys dripping with butter, Ooooo yeh. It`s a shame our youngsters will never know the taste.
I agree with Androcles they have been forced to increase production and consequently they are taking more out of the soil than they are putting in. I don't think Jersey Royals taste anything like as good they did ten years ago. I've found in recent years that Cornish new potatoes are much better than Jerseys. I'm keping my eyes open for the first batch to arrive in the shops - they really are much tastier!