A forgotten variety, new love, and a taste that brings back memories. The Sieglinde potato variety is a true classic and has been a staple of Austrian cuisine for almost 100 years. For a long time, it disappeared from local shelves. Priska and Erich Stekovics are passionate about preserving tried-and-tested varieties and the flavors of yesteryear and have revived this traditional potato variety in Austria. Under the "SPAR wie früher" brand, the firm-cooking organic Sieglinde potatoes are now available for EUR 1.99 at SPAR, EUROSPAR, and INTERSPAR.
By returning to old, forgotten varieties, SPAR is setting an example for sustainability and culinary diversity with its "SPAR wie früher" brand. The organic Sieglinde potatoes are not only a treat but also contribute to the diversity of varieties in local fields. Thanks to dedicated producers such as the Stekovics family, the taste of times gone by lives on and enriches our cuisine.
© Spar
Commitment to diversity
Erich and Priska Stekovics from Burgenland have been committed to preserving and reviving forgotten varieties for years and have rediscovered the traditional potato variety Sieglinde.
"The idea to cultivate this variety came from my positive memories. In the history of potatoes, there was no variety more famous than Sieglinde. In the past, people didn't say they were going to buy potatoes; they said, 'I'm going to buy Sieglinde.' A sentence that is hardly heard in everyday language today," recalls Erich Stekovics, organic farmer and SPAR partner.
The Sieglinde potato variety had long since disappeared from Austria. And that even though it has been a staple of Austrian cuisine for almost 100 years, in classic dishes such as potato salad, dumplings, and fried potatoes.
"The variety was long considered forgotten – the challenges of cultivation were too great because, for example, there is a higher risk of crop failure than with other varieties, especially when there is a lot of rain. With our revival of 'Sieglinde', we not only want to preserve a culinary treasure but also bring back the incomparably delicious taste of our childhood. Thanks to the support of SPAR, we can implement this project that is close to our hearts," explains Erich Stekovics on the cultivation of forgotten treasures.
Organic quality from Austria's best growing regions
SPAR's organic Sieglinde potatoes grow in the fertile regions of Marchfeld, Seewinkel, and Waldviertel under optimal conditions. Careful handling underscores the respectful treatment of this valuable food. The "Sieglinde" variety is a true all-rounder when it comes to potatoes – whether boiled, fried, or in a salad. It impresses with its delicate, aromatic flavor and slightly waxy consistency.
For more information:
www.spar.at
https://www.stekovics.at/
