Potatoes are one of the world’s most versatile and important food crops.
- Forms: Boiled, baked, fried, mashed, roasted, steamed, dehydrated (powder/flakes), chips, crisps, French fries.
- Cuisines worldwide:
- Indian: Aloo paratha, samosa, aloo curry, pav bhaji
- Western: Mashed potatoes, fries, baked potatoes, gnocchi
- Latin American: Papa a la huancaĂna, stews
- Global: Soups, salads, casseroles
Potatoes are often misunderstood as “unhealthy,” but in moderation they offer valuable nutrition:
- Energy Source
- Rich in complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy
- Digestive Health
- Contains resistant starch (prebiotic) that supports gut bacteria
- High in dietary fiber (especially with skin)
- Rich in Nutrients
- Good source of vitamin C (boosts immunity)
- Contains B vitamins, potassium, iron, magnesium
- Heart Health
- High potassium helps regulate blood pressure
- Fiber helps manage cholesterol
- Other Benefits
- Potato juice sometimes used for gastritis or ulcers in folk remedies
- Potato slices used traditionally to soothe burns, swelling, or puffy eyes
- Calories: ~87 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Fiber: 2.2 g
- Rich in vitamin C, potassium, vitamin B6, magnesium, iron
