Potato: A Humble, Nutritious and Delicious Vegetable
Do you have a favourite carb? Maybe, you’re fond of the versatile rice varieties? Or, are you more inclined to happily eat pasta for every meal? Well, in today’s blog, we’re going to tackle the humble potato. Read on to learn the history of this vegetable. Plus, some tasty recipes perfect for the changing seasons.
The History of the Potato
The potato is a starchy tuber and root vegetable native to the Americas. Originating in modern-day Peru, wild potato species are found throughout the continents from Canada to southern Chile. Domesticated about 7,000-10,000 years ago, this vegetable is part of the nightshade family.
What this mean is, like the tomato, parts of the potato contain the toxin solanine. This is dangerous if consumed. Normal potatoes produce such a small amount that is negligible to human health. However, green tubers accumulate a high enough concentration that is toxic.
There are close to 4,000 varieties of potato. In general, they are characterised by common traits such as:
- russet (rough brown skin)
- red
- white
- yellow (also known as Yukon)
- purple
Additionally, they’re also differentiated by their waxiness, starch compounds, and cooking qualities.
History
The potato arrived in Europe sometime before the end of the 16th century. One arrival was in Spain around 1570. Meanwhile, it also made an appearance in the British Isles between 1588 and 1593. The first mention of the vegetable is a recipe for a delivery dating back to 1567. This new food had three major advantages over others on the market:
- Lower rate of spoilage
- Bulk (which easily satisfied hunger)
- Cheapness
Thus, the potato became a staple food for Europeans. In fact, its introduction was responsible for a quarter of the growth in Old World population and urbanisation between 1700 and 1900.
Growth
Potato growth divides into five phases.
- Sprouts emerge from the seed potatoes and root growth begins.
- Then, photosynthesis starts as the plant develops leaves and branches above-ground. As well as, stolons developing from lower leafs on the below-ground stems.
- Next, the stolons sweet to form new tubers. The shoot continue to grow and flowers bloom soon after.
- Fourthly, tuber bulking occurs as the plant incest the majority of its resources in its newly formed tubers. At this stage, several factors play critical roles” optimal soil moisture and temperature; soil nutrient availably and balance; and resistance to pest attacks.
- Lastly, the tubers mature and its skins harden.
Benefits of Potatoes
But, is eating potatoes good for you? Well, for one they are a good source of fibre. This helps prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels. Additionally, the vegetable is full of antioxidants which prevent diseases and contain vitamins that help our bodies function properly.
Warming Recipes
Now craving some potato goodness? Check out these recipes!
Herb Roasted
First, you want to pick potatoes that are right in the middle of the waxy-starchy spectrum. Then cut them into smaller pieces. In a bowl, mix the root with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, parsley, and thyme. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Bake in the oven until golden and fork tender.
Fried Mash Balls
Have leftover mashed potatoes? Try this recipe? Mix the mash with bacon, cheddar, chives, and garlic powder. In separate bowls place egg and panko — this will create the breaded coating! Use a scoop to create balls of the mash mixture. Then coat in eggs, then panko. Fry in oil until golden on all sides.
About the Author
