As the leaves change colour and the air becomes more cold and crisp, now is the perfect time to welcome autumn into the kitchen. At this time of year we all naturally want foods that are warming, tasty and filling as we settle into the colder months- and potatoes fit into that perfectly. While a humble kitchen ingredient, it really is such a staple and here’s why.
Affordability
We’re in the middle of a cost of living crisis, and its hit most of us hard. Even families that were previously fairly comfortable with money are often now struggling to make ends meet and that includes paying for food. So utiltising potatoes more can be a smart idea. They’re incredibly cheap and really fill you up to, so no matter what you make from them you’re sure to get plenty of bang for your buck in terms of satisfying food.
Nutrient Rich
Potatoes might not count as one of your five a day, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have nutritious qualities. Potatoes have gained a bad rap and are often toted as a food to avoid by ‘health’ sources but this couldnt be further from the truth. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They contribute to a well rounded and healthy diet. The skin is a particularly valuable source of nutrients. While certain preparations of potatoes can certainly be unhealthy, as an ingredient alone they’re not an unhealthy choice at all and can fit into most people’s eating plan.
Versatility
Potatoes are blank canvases, they’re ready to absorb the flavors of the season and transform into a variety of dishes. Try this mashed potato recipe for an incredible creamy side dish, or perhaps crispy roasted wedges. What about sliced dauphinoise potatoes, or simple french fries? Potato fondant, hash browns, baked potatoes and so much more- the possibilities are endless! For this time of year, consider infusing whatever you make out fo potatoes with autumn spices and seasonal vegetables.
Easy Cooking
One of the most appealing aspects of incorporating potatoes into your autumn cooking is their ease of preparation. Potatoes require minimal effort to turn them into tasty dishes and anyone regardless of their cooking skillset can most likely find something to cook with a potato! Whether boiled, mashed, baked, or fried, the simplicity of cooking with potatoes allows you to focus on savoring the essence of fall flavors without spending a ton of time in the kitchen.
Autumnal Comfort
As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, there’s something inherently comforting about indulging in meals centered around potatoes. So many potato dishes evoke that lovely sense of warmth and homey comfort that aligns perfectly with the spirit of autumn.