Vegetable, Tuber | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Sodium

Potato

Solanum tuberosum Allergen-Free
potato

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Solanaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round (peak Late Summer-Fall)
  • Source Potato plant

The Forktionary Angle

"The humble potato, a culinary chameleon, forms the backbone of countless dishes, from comforting mashed sides to crispy roasted mains."

Definition

A starchy tuber, staple food worldwide, offering versatility from frying to mashing, available in many varieties.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, starchy, subtly sweet
TextureFloury, waxy, creamy, or firm depending on variety and preparation
AromaEarthy, mild
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Usage

370 million tons/year (approx.)

Storage Tip

Store in cool, dark place (not fridge)

Vitamin C Content

29% DV (per medium potato)

Nutrition Facts

Per 170g (1 medium potato)
Calories77 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2 g
Total Carbohydrate17 g
Dietary Fiber2.2 g
Total Sugars0.8 g
Calcium12 mg
Iron0.8 mg
Potassium421 mg

Chef’s Secret

For crispy roasted potatoes, par-boil them until just tender, then rough up the edges before roasting to maximize surface area for crisping.

Substitutions

Best Match

Sweet Potato

1:1

Excellent for mashing, roasting, or frying, offering a sweeter flavor and different nutrient profile.

Parsnip

1:1

Good for roasting or mashing, providing an earthy, slightly sweeter alternative, especially in stews.

Yucca (Cassava)

1:1

A very starchy tuber, good for frying or boiling, offering a similar texture but requiring more cooking time.

Turnip

1:1

Lower in carbs, good for mashing or adding to stews for a slightly bitter, peppery note.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, smooth potatoes free of sprouts, green spots, or soft areas. Store in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place.

Flavor Pairings

Rosemary thyme garlic butter cheese paprika bacon sour cream.

Recipes Using Potato

Low In Something 60 Minutes Or Less Low Cholesterol Time To Make

Seva Bean Vegetable Stew

Dive into a hearty and exotic Seva Bean Vegetable Stew! This flavorful recipe combines tender seva beans with a vibrant mix of vegetables for a satisfying and unforgettable meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this stew is packed with nutrients and bursting with delicious, authentic flavors.

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Main Ingredient Low Cholesterol Seafood Fish

Alaskan Smoked Salmon Chowder

This Alaskan Smoked Salmon Chowder recipe is a family favorite – so good, it'll drive your family wild! My brother's recipe, featuring succulent smoked salmon and your choice of fresh seafood, creates a creamy, dreamy chowder that's out of this world delicious. Even my picky 14-year-old daughter devoured it! Get ready for a taste of Alaska in your kitchen.

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Occasion Time To Make Casseroles Vegetables

Alfredo Potato Casserole

Indulge in this creamy and comforting Alfredo Potato Casserole! Layers of fluffy potatoes, savory ham, sweet peas, and sharp Swiss cheese are baked to perfection in a rich Alfredo sauce. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds the perfect finishing touch. Easily customizable with frozen spinach or broccoli for a healthy twist. This classic comfort food is perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

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Cuisine Spicy Dietary Course

Aloo Keema Potato And Mince Curry

This vibrant Aloo Keema recipe is a quick and satisfying weeknight meal! Tender potatoes and flavorful minced meat simmered in a rich blend of aromatic spices. Perfect served with rice, naan, or pita bread. Get ready for a taste explosion!

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Low Protein Weeknight Main Ingredient Preparation

Amazing Mashed Potatoes

Say goodbye to bland, instant mashed potatoes! This recipe, passed down through generations, delivers creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes that will steal the show at your next family gathering. Learn the secret to perfectly fluffy potatoes – a family favorite that's become a Thanksgiving and holiday staple for many. Get ready for rave reviews – this recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser!

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Time To Make Presentation Chicken Breasts Vegetables

Apricot Poppy Chicken With Dill Potatoes

This 40-minute recipe for Apricot Poppy Chicken with Dill Potatoes is inspired by Rachel Ray's 30-minute meals (though we're realistic about cooking time!). Sweet apricot preserves, tangy vinegar, and crunchy poppy seeds create a vibrant sauce for juicy chicken, perfectly complemented by tender dill potatoes. A quick and flavorful weeknight dinner the whole family will love!

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Vegetarian Spicy Greens European

Arugula Rocket And Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Elevate your mashed potatoes with a surprising twist! This recipe combines creamy garlic mashed potatoes with pungent blue cheese and peppery arugula for a flavor explosion. The bitterness of the arugula is perfectly balanced by the richness of the potatoes and cheese, making it a delicious introduction to this often-overlooked green. A quick and easy weeknight meal or impressive side dish.

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Number Of Servings Taste Mood North American Cuisine

At Home Bowls A La Kfc

Craving KFC bowls but want a healthier, budget-friendly option? These copycat bowls are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. This recipe cleverly uses leftover mashed potatoes (score!), but you can easily make a fresh batch. Customize the ingredients to your liking for a truly personalized bowl experience! Get ready for a delicious and healthier take on a fast-food favorite.

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Eggs Course Cheese Mashed Potatoes

Au Gratin Potato Pancakes

Craving a creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible side dish? These Au Gratin Potato Pancakes are the answer! Made with leftover mashed potatoes (genius!), these golden-brown delights are surprisingly easy to whip up. Simply save 2 cups of your next batch of mashed potatoes (before adding milk and butter – you can even freeze them!), and you're ready to create this amazing dish whenever the craving strikes. Prepare for a flavor explosion with every crispy bite!

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Oven Occasion Kid Friendly Heirloom Historical

Awesome Easy Chicken Pot Pie

This ridiculously easy chicken pot pie recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Made with simple ingredients and ready in under an hour, it's comfort food perfection. My husband raved about it, and it's even better the next day! Get ready for tender chicken, flaky crust, and creamy veggies in every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

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Preparation Low Fat Low Protein Cuisine

Awesome Simple Baked Potatoes

Elevate your simple baked potato game! This recipe delivers unbelievably fluffy insides and perfectly crispy skins. Forget everything you thought you knew about baked potatoes – these are so easy, yet the flavor and texture are incredible. Friends say they'll never bake a potato any other way after trying this foolproof method!

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Low Cholesterol Healthy 2 Shellfish Soups Stews

B C Ferries Manhattan Clam Chowder For First Class Passengers

Experience the legendary spicy clam chowder served on BC Ferries! This copycat recipe recreates the kicked-up version from a Horseshoe Bay bistro, bringing the delicious heat of the west coast to your kitchen. Perfect for a cozy night in, this vibrant chowder boasts a rich, flavorful broth with tender clams, complemented by zucchini, fennel, and chipotle adobe sauce (or smoked paprika for a milder version). Serve with crusty bread and a crisp BC Sonoma Ranch Pinot Grigio for the ultimate culinary journey. Get ready for a taste of the BC Ferries experience!

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Onions Stove Top Time To Make Presentation

Bacon Scallion Mashed Potatoes Like Applebee's

Indulge in creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes elevated to the next level! Our recipe recreates the irresistible flavor of Applebee's famous bacon scallion mashed potatoes. Crispy bacon, savory scallions, and fluffy potatoes create a rich and unforgettable side dish (or hearty main!). Warning: These are incredibly delicious and may be dangerously addictive!

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Caribbean Main Ingredient Preparation Easy

Bahamian Boiled Fish

This soul-satisfying Bahamian Boiled Fish recipe (a gentle simmer, not a boil!) is unbelievably delicious. Adapted from Rosemary Parkinson's *Culinaria: The Caribbean* and featured in the Miami Herald, this recipe uses any white fish (grouper preferred) simmered in a fragrant broth. The result? A light, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner. Serve with creamy grits and cornbread for a complete Bahamian experience! Add fiery fish peppers for an extra kick (if you can find them!).

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For 1 Or 2 Course Main Ingredient Dietary

Baked Frittata For One

Satisfy your cravings with this single-serving baked frittata! Perfect for a quick lunch or light supper, this recipe is easily doubled for sharing. We recommend using a Roma plum tomato for the best flavor – its sweetness complements the eggs beautifully. Discover a delicious and satisfying meal ready in under 40 minutes!

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Low Calorie Equipment Beef 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Kafta

Experience the authentic flavors of Lebanon with this Baked Kafta recipe, adapted from Mary Salloum's beloved cookbook, "A Taste of Lebanon." Juicy kafta patties, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, are baked to perfection with tender carrots. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Impress your family and friends with this classic Lebanese dish!

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Vegetables Preparation Vegetables Main Ingredient

Baked Potato Cheddar Soup

Creamy, dreamy Baked Potato Cheddar Soup! This comforting classic is elevated with a hint of garlic and your favorite spices. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to customize to your taste. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Preparation Low Calorie Low Saturated Fat Low Fat

Baked Spicy French Fries Ww Core

Crispy, spicy, and totally guilt-free! These baked French fries are even better than the deep-fried versions. Made with a secret blend of spices, they're perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside – without all the unhealthy fat. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both healthy and delicious! Perfect for Weight Watchers.

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