Last Updated on March 7, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Potatoes are one of the most versatile and popular vegetables in the world. They are delicious, easy to prepare, and can be used in a variety of dishes. However, many people are unaware of the different types of potatoes available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
In this article, we will explore what are the different kinds of potatoes, how to pick the perfect potato, how to use and clean potatoes, as well as the health benefits they offer.
What Are Potatoes?
Potatoes are a type of root vegetable that originated in the Andes Mountains of South America. They are a staple food in many cultures around the world and are rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Potatoes come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, and their flavor can vary depending on the type of potato.
16 Different Kinds of Potatoes
- Russet potatoes: These are the most commonly used potatoes in North America. They have a thick, rough skin and a fluffy texture when cooked, making them perfect for baking or mashing.
- Yukon Gold potatoes: These have a buttery yellow flesh and a thin skin that is easy to peel. They are ideal for roasting, boiling, and making mashed potatoes.
- Red potatoes: These potatoes have a thin, smooth skin and a creamy texture when cooked. They are perfect for boiling, roasting, and making potato salad.
- Fingerling potatoes: These small, oblong potatoes are typically around two inches in length. They have a waxy texture and a nutty flavor, making them perfect for roasting or sautéing.
- Purple potatoes: These potatoes have a vibrant purple flesh and skin. They are rich in antioxidants and are perfect for making colorful dishes like potato salad or mashed potatoes.
- Sweet potatoes: These potatoes have a sweet flavor and are often used in desserts. They are rich in vitamin A, fiber, and potassium, and can be baked, boiled, or roasted.
- New potatoes: These are small, immature potatoes that are harvested early in the growing season. They have a thin skin and a delicate, buttery flavor. They are perfect for boiling or roasting.
- Adirondack blue potatoes: These potatoes have a blue flesh and skin and are rich in antioxidants. They are perfect for making colorful dishes like potato salad or roasted potatoes.
- Kennebec potatoes: These are large, oval-shaped potatoes with a smooth skin and a creamy texture. They are perfect for frying, boiling, and making potato chips.
- All Blue potatoes: These potatoes have a blue flesh and skin and are rich in antioxidants. They are perfect for making colorful dishes like potato salad or mashed potatoes.
- German Butterball potatoes: These have a buttery flavor and golden flesh. They are perfect for boiling, roasting, and making mashed potatoes.
- La Ratte potatoes: These are small, elongated potatoes with a nutty flavor and a waxy texture. They are perfect for boiling or roasting.
- Maris Piper potatoes: These potatoes have a creamy flesh and a fluffy texture when cooked. They are perfect for making chips, roasting, and making mashed potatoes.
- Purple Viking potatoes: These have purple skin and white flesh. They are perfect for boiling, baking, and making mashed potatoes.
- Rose Finn Apple potatoes: These have pinkish-red skin and creamy, yellow flesh. They are perfect for boiling, roasting, and making potato salad.
- White potatoes: These potatoes have white flesh and a thin skin. They are perfect for baking, boiling, and making mashed potatoes.
How to Pick the Perfect Potato?
When picking potatoes, look for firm, smooth skin and no soft spots, bruises, or sprouts. The ideal potato should be heavy for its size and free from any green discoloration. Green spots on potatoes indicate that they have been exposed to sunlight, which can cause the potato to produce solanine, a natural toxin that can make you feel sick if consumed in large quantities.
It is also important to choose potatoes that are appropriate for the cooking method you plan to use. For example, Russet potatoes are great for baking, while waxy potatoes like Red or Fingerling are best for boiling and making salads.
How to Use Potatoes?
Potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple mashed potatoes to more complex recipes like potato gratin. Here are some ways to use potatoes:
- Baked potatoes: Rub potatoes with olive oil and salt, pierce them with a fork, and bake in the oven for about an hour.
- Mashed potatoes: Boil potatoes until soft, drain, and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Roasted potatoes: Cut potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until crispy.
- Potato salad: Boil diced potatoes until tender, cool, and mix with chopped onions, celery, and mayo.
- Potato gratin: Layer sliced potatoes with cream, garlic, and cheese, and bake in the oven until golden brown.
How to Clean Potatoes?
It is important to clean potatoes thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. Here is how to clean potatoes:
- Rinse potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a vegetable brush to scrub the skin of the potatoes, paying particular attention to any areas with stubborn dirt.
- Rinse the potatoes again under cold water to remove any remaining dirt.
- Dry the potatoes with a clean towel or paper towel.
Health Benefits of Potatoes
Potatoes are a nutritious food that can offer a variety of health benefits [1]. Here are some health benefits of potatoes:
- High in potassium: Potatoes are rich in potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Rich in fiber: Potatoes are a good source of fiber, which can help improve digestion and promote feelings of fullness.
- Source of vitamin C: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and collagen production.
- Low in fat: Potatoes are naturally low in fat, making them a great option for those trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
Conclusion
Potatoes are a versatile and delicious vegetable that come in a variety of types, each with its own unique flavor and characteristics. When picking potatoes, look for firm, smooth skin and avoid any green spots or sprouts. Potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple baked potatoes to more complex recipes like potato gratin. Make sure to clean your potatoes thoroughly before cooking and enjoy the many health benefits they offer.
Reference:
- https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/good-food/potato-health-benefits-and-why-you-should-eat-more-spuds/2022/05#:~:text=Potatoes%20for%20health%20and%20nutrition&text=They’re%20rich%20in%20vitamin,%2C%20muscles%2C%20and%20nervous%20system.
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