Everywhere in the world, potatoes are a common and significant source of starch. Given the countless varieties that can be grown and the equally countless ways in which they can be prepared in a dish, it is not difficult to understand why. With an average annual per capita consumption of 142 pounds, potatoes are the most popular vegetable consumed in the US.
Here are five more reasons to eat potatoes in case the fact that they have their holiday isn’t enough to persuade you.
1. They Are Completely Scrumptious In Every Way!
Nothing can change the fact that potato is delicious food! They represent the pinnacle of all comfort foods and foods that can transport you back to your early years. A hearty serving of potatoes is the epitome of patriotism. But not just Americans, people all over the world have a soft spot in their hearts for this starchy vegetable. The top four consumers are the United States, China, Russia, and India.
China alone was in charge of 47,594,193 tons of consumption in 2005. No matter who you are or where you’re from, the fact that so many people like them is sufficient proof of how tasty they are.
2. They Can Take On A Variety Of Shapes
A versatile food that can be prepared in a wide range of ways, potatoes are a welcome addition to any dish, culture, or period. Two of our favorite ways to serve potatoes at Kate’s Kitchen are the mountain of French fries in the afternoon and the breakfast potatoes in the morning. You can cook potatoes in a variety of ways, including boiling, baking, roasting, frying, and scalloping.
Although there is a nearly infinite variety, including casseroles, soups, and sides, mashed potatoes, French fries, and chips will always be the most popular choices. By adding various toppings, such as mayonnaise, garlic, rosemary, sour cream, green onions, butter, or small pieces of bacon, you can make them appear fancier. Yum!
3. Consuming Potatoes May Be Good For Your Health
Although the opposite of these claims is true, the potato has gained a bad reputation over the years as being unhealthy and causing weight gain. They are abundant in several necessary vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium, as well as vitamins A and C. They aid in weight loss in several ways, including by being low in calories, high in fiber, and fat-free.
In potatoes, there are a lot of antioxidants that fight disease. Many ancient civilizations, including those in China and Ireland, relied solely on this root vegetable due to the potato’s high nutritional value. It offers all of the vital nutrients needed for life because it is the vegetable with the highest concentration of nutrients on the planet.
4. Your Wallet Won’t Take A Significant Financial Hit
A pound of potatoes typically costs 31 cents. They are an excellent option if you’re looking to stretch your food budget because they were discovered to have the second-highest nutritious content per penny in research. They are the most practical and economical approach to ensure that you receive all the nutrients you need.
5. They Are Available For A Long Time
The fact that potatoes are a cheap and versatile ingredient is well known, but did you also know that they can be kept in your kitchen for what seems like an eternity? That is an extra benefit. The shelf life is typically three to four months. Depending on the type of potato you use and the environment in which you store them, this will differ slightly. If you use this helpful tip, you can store them in your freezer for up to eight months!