Potatoes...friend or foe?

They are either loved by some and/or well feared by some. Are potatoes really that bad? Let’s take a closer look, shall we?
Potatoes are a tuber. What this means is that they are basically a root and if allowed to flower, the potato will grow a green plant that will flower an inedible fruit. Anyway! They belong to the nightshade family; like tomatoes, eggplants, peppers ad tomatillos.
They are considered a staple for many countries and cultures. They are available year round as well. They are quite healthy. Potatoes are low calorie and high in fibre. They are rich in vitamin B6 and a great source of potassium, copper, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus, niacin and vitamin B5. They are also quite high in antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids.
What makes people so afraid of them? Well, for the most part, people eat them deep fried and covered in salt. Also, the amounts of them we eat. Overall, potatoes are quite healthy for us, but not in a French fry or chip form.  And maybe don’t always have them covered in butter, sour cream and/or cheese all the time, eh? There are many ways to cook them healthier; like boiled, baked, mashed, roasted or even scalloped.
How do you choose potatoes? You are better to buy them unpackaged, this way, you inspect each one for decomposition. They should be firm and free of decay. You don’t want to choose ones that sprouts are already growing or have green spots. Did you know that the green spots may indicate a toxin called alkaloid solanine that could cause some health issues – so just avoid them :)  How should they be stored? Ideally, in a cool, dry, dark place away from onions and not in the refrigerator. Otherwise they will each emit a gas that can degrade each one. Paper bags are the best option. Mature potatoes can be kept for at least 2 months, while new potatoes are much more sensitive and can really only last about 1 week.
I love roasted potatoes the best! What’s your favourite way to eat them?