A Celebration of Tradition

The village of Taborno is celebrating the 10th Potato Borralla Day, organised by the San José Neighbours Association in collaboration with the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, the Cabildo, and the event’s sponsoring entities. As part of the eco-festival Anaga Biofest, they have included the ‘Etnographic Route of the Potato Borralla in Taborno’.

An Engaging Experience

This event offers an experience that combines hiking, nature, and knowledge exchange with local farmers, who shared cultivation techniques, the importance of conserving this variety, and insights into the unique land and environmental conditions that contribute to the potato’s distinctive flavour, according to the organisers.

A Taste of Tradition

The gathering allowed the residents of Taborno to present a selection of traditional dishes highlighting the potato borralla as the star ingredient. Prior to the tasting of these traditional dishes, workshops on exchanging traditional seeds, seedbeds with local varieties, and local seed bombs were conducted, supported by Santa Cruz Sostenible, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, and the Canarian Network of Seeds.

Symbolism and Importance

The festival director, Javier Tejera, emphasised that “we are witnessing an event steeped in great symbolism, which the people of Taborno have successfully maintained over the years. It has been crucial in keeping the cultivation of the potato borralla alive, not only for its distinctive flavour but also for its landscape and cultural significance.”

Support from Local Authorities

The Director of Natural Resources, Pedro Millán, explained that the Cabildo supports this project and promotes “all actions within our reach to enhance the development of the primary sector and the promotion of zero-kilometre products throughout the Anaga Biosphere Reserve.” Regarding the potato borralla, he asserted that “we are not talking about just any product, but a delicacy cultivated by the men and women of Anaga. We have a duty to protect and continue valuing it for future generations.”

A Cultural Tribute

As the councillor for the Anaga district, Gladis de León remarked, the gathering “is not just a gastronomic celebration but a tribute to the culture and tradition of our land. The ‘Etnographic Route’ allows us to connect with the roots of Anaga, learn from its farmers, and understand the value of a potato variety that is much more than just a food item; it is an essential part of our heritage and history.”