Know this
That deep violet is anthocyanin, the same antioxidant that makes blueberries blue. The chef secret: boiling leaches the color into the water and dulls the flesh, so roast, steam, or air-fry to keep it vivid. Leave the skin on, that is where most of it lives.
Cook
Halve, toss in oil and salt, and roast hot until the edges crackle and the inside stays creamy. A splash of vinegar at the end wakes them up.
Season
Late summer into fall, but they store beautifully all winter.
Best pairings
olive oil · rosemary · garlic · flaky salt · sour cream · chives
Also worth trying: brown butter, thyme, lemon, smoked paprika, bacon, creme fraiche, parmesan, black pepper, scallion, aioli.
Recommended wine
A light, earthy red or a crisp rose. Pinot Noir or a dry rose. Around $15 to $28.
See the full pairing guide