The land of purple potatoes. Two-thirds of the world's potato crops originate in Europe, but the production there cannot compare with the diversity of tubers found in this South American country. They range in color from purple to blue, from yellow to brown. Sizes and textures vary as well. The taste of different potatoes varies broadly, explaining why these vegetables are used in all kind of dishes from appetizers to desserts.
Peruvian potatoes date back to the massive Incan empire.
In the Incan heyday in the 15th century, native farmers learned how to carve terraces out of steep hillsides of the Andes and adapt to the various climates of the region. Now scientists are working to reclaim some of the lost potato crops in hopes that potatoes will become a staple for the world's hungry.