Potatoes are such a versatile staple in the garden and the kitchen! These tubers are packed with nutrients and health-boosting goodness, especially if you enjoy them with the skins on.
Getting the Most Out of Your Potatoes
To keep all those vitamins where they belong, your best bet is to eat the skins—think baked potatoes or roasted wedges. Also, here’s a pro tip: don’t pour that cooking water down the drain! It’s loaded with B vitamins and is great for repurposing. Potatoes are actually total superstars when it comes to wellness; they’ve been linked to supporting everything from heart health and kidney function to boosting your mood and memory.
What’s Inside Matters
There’s a reason potatoes are a favorite in home kitchens everywhere—they taste amazing and they’re incredibly good for you. Here’s a quick breakdown of the “good stuff” inside:
- Chlorogenic Acid: This plant compound is a heavy hitter that helps block carcinogenic nitrogen compounds.
- Potassium: A vital mineral that keeps your heart and circulatory system running smoothly.
- Complex Carbohydrates: These provide steady energy that helps with memory function, eases heartburn, and can even help lift your mood.
- Vitamin B6: This is a go-to for helping with insomnia, PMS symptoms, and overall mental well-being.
From Garden to Table
While we love our potatoes here in the States, they’re a global favorite, popping up in everything from European classics to flavorful Asian dishes. If you’re harvesting early-season “new” potatoes, you’ll love their intense flavor—they’re perfect for potato salads or simply boiled with a bit of salt. Mid-season varieties are usually waxy and hold their shape well, making them your best friend for pan-frying or tossing into a hearty potato soup. For those late-season harvests, you’re looking at the starchy types that make the fluffiest mashed potatoes or the perfect crispy fries.
Try “Dirty” Mashed Potatoes
Since the skin is where the nutritional magic happens, I highly recommend making your mashed potatoes with the peels left on. Just boil them whole and mash them up as usual. To get that perfect creamy consistency, try adding back a splash of the cooking water. Any leftover potato water makes a fantastic, nutrient-rich base for your next batch of soup or stew!
