Potato: season and benefits
Seasonal calendar - Potato
Nutritional values
Good source of energy and potassium, the potato also provides vitamin C and B6.
Storage
Store potatoes in a cool (6–8°C), dark, ventilated place, never in the fridge which turns starch into sugar. Place an apple with them to slow sprouting. Remove sprouts before eating. Never eat green potatoes (toxic solanine). They keep several months in a cellar.
Origin
The potato originates from the Peruvian Andes, cultivated for 8,000 years. Brought to Europe in the 16th century, it was long spurned as it was believed toxic. It was Antoine Parmentier who popularised it in France in the late 18th century through a brilliant marketing ploy: he had his fields guarded by soldiers during the day, then left them unguarded at night to encourage theft.
Cooking Potato
Goes well with
Recipe ideas
- Dauphinois gratin
- Mashed potatoes
- Tartiflette
- Jacket potatoes
- Fish and chips
Did you know?
Parmentier had his potato fields guarded by soldiers during the day and removed the guards at night, tempting curious Parisians to steal the "forbidden" vegetable.