Here are the seven most common types of potatoes, their nutritional value, and how to use each of them to their full potential.
Did you know there are over 200 types of potatoes in the United States alone? This versatile root vegetable has more nutrition and culinary uses than we give it credit for.
Russet Potatoes
Arguably one of the most common and well-used potato types, russet potatoes are a staple ingredient in kitchens across the country. Russet potatoes come in a number of varieties, such as Burbank, Goldrush, and Centennial. They are naturally sodium and cholesterol free, high in vitamin C, and a medium Russet potato actually contains more potassium than a banana. (Here are 4 other foods that are excellent sources of potassium)
Russets have a mild, earthy flavor, and a light and dry texture, and work best for baking and frying. This creates a crispy exterior, and light and fluffy interior. This type of potato is excellent baked, sliced into homemade french fries, or roasted in wedges. They have a hearty light-brown skin and pale yellow or white flesh inside.
Purple Potatoes
Their signature dark-hued flesh is not only eye-catching, but is full of added nutrition as well. Purple potatoes’ nutrition is worth noting! They contain the same nutrients as russet potatoes (such as fiber, potassium, and B vitamins), but what sets them apart is their antioxidant content. Their bright purple color is credited to anthocyanins, the same antioxidants found in other purple-hued foods such as grapes and red wine. This gives purple potatoes four times as many antioxidants as a russet potato, and an easy way to add color to any dish.
Purple potatoes have a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a firm texture. Their color is preserved best by microwave cooking, but can also be enjoyed by baking or steaming. The flavor profile of purple potatoes goes well with green salads, and serving them with other varieties of potatoes such as white and red makes their color truly pop. The most popular varieties of purple potatoes include Purple Majesty, Adirondack Blue, and Purple Peruvian.
Discover the culinary power of purple potatoes in this Purple Power Bowl with Prunes & Spiced Vinaigrette Dressing.
Yellow Potatoes
Yellow potatoes have received extra special attention from both consumers and chefs for their smooth texture and buttery taste. Some of the most popular varieties of yellow potatoes includes Yukon Gold, Yellow Finn, and Agata. Like most types of potatoes, yellow are an excellent source of energy-boosting carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium, but are also a good source of vitamin B6, thiamin, and dietary fiber.
As their name implies, yellow potatoes have a golden flesh with a light tan skin. They have a moist, velvety texture with a slightly sweet and buttery flavor that can easily be transformed into creamy mashed potatoes or roasted into coins. Their natural, more decadent flavor allows for the use of less butter in recipes, making them a lighter choice without a sacrifice in flavor.
Step up your potato salad game with this Warm Potato, Leek, and Lentil Salad with Citrus and Herbs.
Red Potatoes
In addition to giving these potatoes their namesake, the red skin of this variety provides them with a different nutrition profile as well. Since it is thin and delicate, the skin does not affect the flavor or texture of a dish as much as other varieties may. The skin holds most of the potatoes fiber, and as compared to russet potatoes, red potatoes are lower in carbohydrates and calories, and higher in vitamin K and niacin.
Red potatoes have a smooth, thin, and red skin with a white interior flesh. They have a waxy, creamy, and subtly sweet flavor, and maintain a firm texture when cooked. This makes them ideal for use in potato salads and soups, as well as mashed or roasted. Some of the most common varieties of red potatoes includes Chieftain, Norland, and Ruby.
Nutritionists eat potato salad too! Find out what other dishes they really eat at a BBQ.
White Potatoes
White potatoes are often thought of as a less nutritious option when compared to other vegetables. While they tend to be higher in carbohydrates and lower in fiber than non-starchy veggies (such as leafy greens, peppers, and asparagus), white potatoes are still a nutritious, and satisfying food with an array of culinary possibilities. When compared to sweet potatoes, white potatoes are slightly higher in protein, potassium, and magnesium, and lower in sugar.
White potatoes have a delicate, light golden skin with a bright white flesh. They tend to hold their shape when cooked, and can withstand grilling and frying applications. Since their skin is thin and delicate, white potatoes can be mashed with their skin-on without significantly impacting their flavor or texture. Some of the most common varieties of white potatoes include White Rose, Cascade, and Kennebec.
Still love sweet potatoes? Try this Sweet Potato Turmeric Soup for a quick & easy lunch.
Which of these types of potatoes is your favorite?
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