Michelin-starred chef Shaun Rankin lifted the first Jersey Royals from the côtils last week.
The 2006 British Chef of the Year - as crowned by the Independent - is to be the face of Jersey Royals this year.
Rankin, who is head chef at renowned Michelin-starred Jersey restaurant Bohemia and well known for his emphasis on seasonal food, is looking forward to having them back on his menu.
He said: ‘‘Jersey Royals are the earliest new potato to hit the shops and have an unbeatable waxy texture and very distinctive taste and appearance. The unique flavour of a Jersey Royals makes them a culinary delicacy and all good chefs will have them on their menus this summer.
“They are divine simply boiled and served with a knob of Jersey butter, but can also be used in more adventurous dishes or used in a variety of recipes.’’
The premium new potatoes are only available until late June.
Rankin will work closely with Jersey Royals over the coming year to formulate some exclusive recipes.
