Potatoes
A highly starchy member of the nightshade family, the potato is a good source of energy and has become a staple of the American diet. The potato is not only a good source of carbohydrates but also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. It is also low in fat and low in salt. If you have a potato allergy, the carrot can provide a great substitute.
Different Types
Russet potatoes are the most common of the potato family. They have dark brown skin with white flesh that becomes fluffy when cooked. They contain little moisture and are not waxy like other varieties. This makes them best for baking and frying.
Red potatoes are small and round with pinkish-white skin that is waxier than other potato varieties. The red potato is perfect for boiling, steaming or roasting because it retains it's shape and crunchiness.
Yukon gold potatoes are more in the middle of russets and reds. They contain more moisture than russet potatoes and are less waxy than red potatoes. They are also higher in starch than a russet, which makes the Yukon gold ideal for boiling and mashed potatoes. The Yukon gold has a yellowish/golden skin with yellow flesh.
Potato Flour
Potato flour is a dense flour making it challenging to use in recipes. In small amounts, potato flour makes dishes crumbly and moist but in large amounts the potato flour acts like mashed potatoes (especially when wet). It is best to mix the potato flour in carefully to avoid making mistakes.
A little history
The potato originally gained popularity in the European diet in the early 17th century during the Thirty Yeas war because the potato grows underground. This kept it safe from burning like grains and other vegetables. The potato had arrived in Europe in the early 16th century after the Spanish were introduced to it while exploring the new world.
Trivia
There are over two hundred different species of potatoes grown throughout the world. The majority of these varieties are found however in the southwestern United States, Mexico, central America and the northern portion of South America.
More Information
- Potato information, How Stuff Works
- Raw Potato health information, NutritionData.com
- The Healthy Potato
- The Potato Grower
- Global Potato News
