Potatoes are one of the most popular vegetables around the world, and for good reason. Not only are they incredibly versatile and easy to prepare, but potatoes are also incredibly nutritious. From mashed potatoes to crispy french fries, there are so many delicious ways to cook potatoes. 

In this blog post, we'll explore some simple tips for making delicious and nutritious potatoes in your own kitchen. Read on to learn how to cook potatoes in a variety of different ways that are sure to tantalize your taste buds!

What kind of potatoes are there?

Potatoes are a versatile, delicious and nutritious vegetable that comes in many varieties. Potatoes come in different shapes, sizes, colors and flavors. There are over 4,000 varieties of potatoes around the world. 

The most common types of potatoes are russet, red, yellow and white potatoes. Russet potatoes are large, brown-skinned potatoes with high starch content. Red potatoes have thin red skins and white flesh. Yellow potatoes have yellow skins and yellow flesh. White potatoes have white skins and white flesh. 

Each type of potato has its own unique flavor and texture. Russet potatoes are fluffy and light when cooked, while red and yellow potatoes hold their shape better when cooked. White potatoes are the most versatile as they can be boiled, mashed or used for baking. 

Potatoes can also be bought in different forms such as fresh, frozen, mashed or even dehydrated. Fresh potatoes are a great choice as they are easy to prepare and have a great taste. Frozen potatoes are convenient as they are already pre-cooked, so you don't need to spend time peeling and chopping them. 

Mashed potatoes are great for making delicious potato dishes like potato casserole or mashed potatoes. Dehydrated potatoes can be added to soups or used for baking. 
No matter which type of potato you choose, potatoes are a great addition to any meal!

What are the benefits of eating potatoes?

Potatoes are a nutrient-dense food that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are low in calories and contain many essential nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle. Eating potatoes can help to maintain blood sugar levels, boost immunity, improve digestion, reduce cholesterol, and lower the risk of heart disease. 

Potatoes are packed with Vitamin C, an important antioxidant for the body. This vitamin helps to protect cells from damage and helps to keep skin looking young and healthy. 

Potatoes are also a good source of B Vitamins, which provide energy and help the body to metabolize proteins and carbohydrates. Potassium is another essential nutrient found in potatoes, which helps to regulate blood pressure and may lower the risk of stroke. 

Fiber is also abundant in potatoes, with both soluble and insoluble fibers that are important for digestive health. Soluble fiber can slow the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Insoluble fiber helps to add bulk to stool, aiding in digestion. 

Finally, potatoes contain a range of phytonutrients that may have antioxidant properties. These compounds may reduce inflammation and protect against certain diseases such as cancer. 

Overall, potatoes are a nutritious food that provide essential vitamins and minerals to support health and wellbeing. Eating them regularly can help to improve digestion, reduce cholesterol levels, and boost immunity.

How to cook potatoes?

Potatoes are a versatile and delicious staple in many meals, from mashed potatoes to french fries. There are several different ways to cook potatoes, depending on the recipe or desired texture. 

Boiling is one of the most common ways to cook potatoes. To do so, start by scrubbing the potatoes and cutting off any eyes or bad spots. Then, place the potatoes in a large pot with cold water and a tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. Test doneness with a fork, and when they are done, drain them in a colander.

Baking is another popular way to cook potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scrub your potatoes and prick each one several times with a fork before placing them on the baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through. Test for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork – when it slides in easily, they’re ready.

You can also fry potatoes for a crispy finish. Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.

For a healthier option, you can steam or microwave potatoes. To steam, place whole potatoes in a steamer basket set over boiling water and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes until tender. To microwave, pierce potatoes with a fork and place on a plate. Cook on high for 5-7 minutes until tender. 
No matter how you choose to cook them, potatoes make an easy and delicious addition to any meal!

Recipes

There are so many delicious and healthy recipes you can make with potatoes. Here are some of our favorite recipes for potatoes:

1. Baked Potato: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Scrub 2 large baking potatoes and pat dry. Prick potatoes several times with a fork and rub with olive oil. Place on baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Serve with butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, and bacon. 

2. Roasted Potatoes: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Scrub 1 pound of small red potatoes and cut into quarters. Place in a bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Place the potatoes onto a greased baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. 

3. Mashed Potatoes: Peel 5 large potatoes and cut into cubes. Boil in a pot of salted water for 10-15 minutes or until soft. Drain the potatoes and add 4 tablespoons of butter, 1/4 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mash the potatoes until creamy.

4. Potato Salad: Boil 6 potatoes until tender and cut into cubes. In a separate bowl mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons chopped dill, salt and pepper to taste. Add the cubed potatoes to the mayonnaise mixture and mix to combine. Top with chopped chives and serve. 

5. Twice Baked Potatoes: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Scrub 4 large potatoes and prick several times with a fork. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes or until tender. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl. 

Add 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup shredded cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix together and spoon the mixture back into the potato shells. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with extra cheese and chives. 
We hope you enjoy these delicious recipes for potatoes!

FAQS

1. How do I know which potatoes are the best for cooking? 
When choosing potatoes for cooking, look for ones that have a firm, smooth skin and no visible blemishes. Look for potatoes that are uniform in size, so they will cook evenly. 

2. How do I store potatoes to keep them fresh?
Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Make sure they’re not in a plastic bag, as this can trap moisture and lead to spoilage.

3. How long do potatoes last? 
Potatoes typically last up to two months if stored correctly in a cool, dark area. Potatoes can also be stored in the refrigerator to make them last longer. 

4. Can I freeze potatoes? 
Yes, you can freeze potatoes. Potatoes are best frozen after being cooked first, as this will prevent them from getting too mushy when reheated. 

5. Can I eat potatoes raw? 
It is not recommended to eat raw potatoes due to their high starch content, which may cause digestive issues.