In the rugged terrain of the Peruvian Andes, Manuel Choqque Bravo stands as a beacon of agricultural innovation, dedicated to preserving ancient potato varieties and unlocking the potential of what he calls ‘super potatoes’.
Hailing from Huatata near Cusco, Manuel, qs a fourth-generation farmer from Huatata near Cusco, Manuel’s deep-rooted connection to the land and his ancestral crops propelled him into the realm of agricultural innovation, is on a mission to revive the sacred significance of potatoes among the Incas. With a deep-rooted passion for ancestral knowledge, Manuel, alongside his family, meticulously cross-pollinates potatoes to develop a diverse array of hybrid varieties. Among his creations are the striking ruby-red, indigo, amethyst, and marigold potatoes, each boasting exceptional levels of nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants.
An Agricultural Enginnering graduate of the Universidad San Antonio Abad in Cusco, Manuel’s early forays into the agricultural field were met with skepticism and challenges. Despite facing doubts about his youth and experience, Manuel remained undeterred, driven by a singular vision to debunk the misconceptions surrounding native potatoes. His mission was clear: to unveil the true potential of these ancient tubers beyond their perceived role as mere sources of carbohydrates. His dedication and profound studies on native potatoes have earned him accolades such as the prestigious Summum Award in 2018 and a coveted spot on the 50 Next list in 2021, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in agricultural research in Peru.
Through his groundbreaking work, Manuel has transformed the humble potato into a superfood powerhouse, with some varieties containing ten times the antioxidants of blueberries, five times the vitamin C of citrus fruits, significant iron and zinc content, and dual proteins. By challenging conventional perceptions of potatoes, Manuel is reshaping the narrative around the Peruvian native potato, elevating it to the status of a nutritional powerhouse.
His innovative approach has garnered recognition from Peru’s culinary elite, with renowned chefs from establishments like Central and Mérito in Lima singing praises of his exceptional produce. Despite initially pursuing a career in law, Manuel’s unwavering connection to the land and his ancestral crops led him to embrace his true calling in agricultural engineering, where he found purpose in transforming the potato landscape.
In addition to his potato breeding endeavors, Manuel has delved into the realm of fermented beverages, crafting a unique ‘wine’ from the oca tuber. His venture into potato ‘wines’, under the brands Miskioca and Oxalis, showcases his creative spirit and commitment to exploring the diverse culinary possibilities offered by Andean tubers.
Looking ahead, Manuel’s focus shifts towards developing resilient potato varieties capable of withstanding the growing challenges posed by climate change in the Andean region. As erratic weather patterns threaten traditional farming practices, Manuel sees the urgent need to breed hybrids that can adapt to droughts, frosts, and other environmental stressors, reinforcing his dedication to safeguarding Peru’s agricultural heritage for generations to come.
