Description

The potato is the world’s ultimate comfort food and a true kitchen workhorse. Whether you’re mashing them until creamy, roasting them to a golden crisp, or simmering them in a hearty stew, potatoes provide a mild, earthy base that carries flavors perfectly. From waxy “new” potatoes to starchy Russets, there is a variety for every cooking method.

Potatoes were first domesticated by the Inca Indians in the Andes Mountains of Peru between 8,000 and 5,000 BCE. They were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, though they were initially met with suspicion. It wasn’t until the 18th century that they became a vital staple crop that helped fuel the population growth of the modern world.

Potatoes are unique because they have two main harvest windows. “New potatoes” are harvested in early Summer while the plant is still green. However, the main crop is harvested in Autumn once the vines have died back, allowing the skins to toughen for long-term winter storage.