Potato Power: Affordable, Nutritious, and Surprisingly Versatile in Every Kitchen

What grows in the ground, has multiple eyes, and is a coveted item around the world? No, it's not an alien, it's the mighty potato!

Come along, Foodguides fam, as we peruse the plentiful purposes of potatoes. Keep an “eye” out for fun Potato Points along the way!

The Affordable Foundation: Why Potatoes Should Be Your Pantry Staple

Potatoes are everywhere. You can find them at your local supermarket and farmers’ markets. They also have many uses. In the famous words of Samwise Gamgee from The Lord of the Rings,  “Boil ‘em, mash ‘em, stick them in a stew! Lovely big golden chips with a nice piece of fried fish. Even you can’t say no to that!”

High Calorie, High Nutrient Density, and Low Cost

Potatoes are an excellent source of energy, containing natural carbohydrates. They also contain potassium and fiber, which are essential for proper gut health. Potatoes are great for your wallet’s health, too! Potatoes are cheap to buy and leave you fuller longer, eliminating the need for extra meals.

Potato Point 1 - Potatoes have eyes! However, they serve as seed pods for reproduction rather than sight.

Types of Potatoes and Their Best Uses (Russet, Sweet, Red)

Potatoes come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Today, we will focus on three types of potatoes: russet, sweet, and red.

Russet Potatoes - When you think of a potato, chances are the Russet is the first one you think of. They are characterized by their brown skins and yellow-cream “flesh” (the inside of the potato). They are best used for mashed potatoes, baking, and fries.

Sweet Potatoes - These are one of the most colorful dishes seen on your dining table! Sweet potatoes are known for their dark brown skins and orange flesh. They can be cooked as sweet or savory, depending on the recipe. Sweet potatoes are best prepared mashed, baked, fried, or pureed. 

Red Potatoes - Think of red potatoes as Russet’s smaller cousin. Their red skins and creamy flesh characterize red potatoes. They are best used in potato salad but are also scrumptious baked or mashed. 

Potato Point 2 - Over 200 species of potatoes are grown in the United States! They can be separated into seven categories: russet, red, white, blue/purple, petite, yellow, and fingerling.

10 Meals Where Potatoes Take Center Stage

Here are 10 of our favorite meals where the potato is the star of the show! 

Stretching Protein: Creating Affordable Fillings (e.g., Shepherd's Pie Topping, Hash)

1. Potato casserole

2. Shepherd’s pie topping

3. Hash

Making It a Main Dish: Cheap and Easy Potato Soups and Stews

1. Cheesy potato corn chowder

2. Hungarian potato and sausage soup

3. Cauliflower potato soup

4. Vegan potato soup

Using Potatoes in Indian, Latin American, and European Budget Meals

1. Aloo Tikki - a traditional Indian dish with patties made of mashed potatoes, spices, green chilies, and coriander leaves

2. Papas Chorreadas - a traditional Latin American dish made with sliced red potatoes covered in cheese and a sauce called “hogao.”

3. Kartofelnye zrazy - a traditional Polish meal, potato cakes stuffed with meat and vegetables

Potato Point 3 -  In 1995, potato seedlings were sent aboard the space shuttle Columbia, making potatoes the first vegetable grown in space!

Tips for Cooking Potatoes Safely and Efficiently

Storage Secrets to Prevent Spoilage

As with any food item, potatoes must be stored properly to ensure quality. Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark place in a basket, cardboard box, or paper bag that allows air flow. Here are some dos and don’ts when it comes to potato storage: