Exploring 10 Unusual Potato Dishes from Around the World
Potatoes, the humble tuber that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world, are celebrated on International Potato Day. From the Incas who first cultivated them to the modern-day foodies who enjoy them in various forms, potatoes have a rich history and a global presence.
The journey of the potato from being an ornamental plant to a staple food crop is fascinating. French Queen Marie Antoinette and Swiss botanist Gaspard Bauhin played roles in shaping the potato’s identity. Today, there are over 4,000 cultivated varieties of potatoes grown in 130 countries worldwide.
To mark International Potato Day, let’s take a culinary tour around the globe and explore some unique potato dishes:
1. Kumpir (Turkey): A baked jacket potato stuffed with garlic butter and cheese, topped with various toppings.
2. Gamjajeon (Korea): A savoury Korean pancake made with finely grated potatoes, served with dipping sauces.
3. Colcannon (Ireland): Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with sautéed cabbage, a traditional Irish dish.
4. Hasselbackspotatis (Sweden): Swedish-style roast potatoes served as a side dish with poultry and meat.
5. Perkedel Kentang (Indonesia): Fried potato patty made with mashed fried potatoes, meat, and spices.
6. Rosti (Switzerland): Fried grated potatoes topped with a fried egg, bacon, and cheese, a classic Swiss dish.
7. Raspeballer (Norway): Traditional potato dumplings served with syrup and crispy bacon or as a side dish with meat.
8. Papa a la HuancaÃna (Peru): Cold boiled potatoes in a spicy, creamy sauce made with queso fresco and Peruvian chilli.
9. Stoemp (Belgium): Mashed potatoes with root vegetables, herbs, and spices, served alongside various meats.
10. Silpancho (Bolivia): A dish of white rice, boiled potatoes, pounded meat, and chopped tomato, originating from Cochabamba, Bolivia.
These dishes showcase the versatility and cultural significance of potatoes in different cuisines. So, this International Potato Day, why not try a new potato dish and celebrate the beloved spud in all its delicious forms!
