Potatoes: The beloved staple we might be pairing all wrong

Dinner without potatoes? For some, it’s unthinkable. These vegetables are a trendy addition, often to meat, whether fried or in sauce. But is this a good combination? And it’s not just about the calories, because those, as we know, are not lacking in such dishes.

It's no surprise that we eagerly eat potatoes. They are some of the most popular vegetables worldwide. They are relatively cheap, filling, and suitable for many dishes. However, not all culinary combinations with potatoes as the main ingredient benefit us.

There are nearly 4,000 varieties of the popular potato known worldwide. Its flesh takes on various colours, such as white, yellow, pink, purple, or red. We most often eat them boiled. They are then low in calories and have many health benefits. They contain a lot of vitamin C, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, iodine, copper, manganese, vitamin A, B vitamins, folates, and beta-carotene. They are also rich in fibre, which improves digestion and bowel movement, providing a quick feeling of fullness.

Many years ago, potatoes gained the label of being high-calorie. Meanwhile, 100 grams (about 4 ounces) of boiled potatoes contain only 73 kcal, 0.01 grams (0.00035 ounces) of fat, and water. In comparison, 100 grams of French fries contain as much as 280 kcal. Therefore, boiled potatoes are healthy, nutritious and low in calories, making them an ideal choice for people on a diet. It’s worth remembering not to peel potatoes much earlier before cooking and not to keep them in water; it’s best to cook them immediately in boiling water. The most valuable potatoes are those boiled in their skins; the second best are those prepared by steaming, and the third are those placed in hot water and cooked directly after peeling.

Despite many benefits, potatoes in some combinations don’t suit us. Due to their high starch content, potatoes can cause an adverse reaction when combined with animal protein. This can lead to an accelerated fermentation process in the stomach. What does this mean? Discomfort, such as bloating, heaviness, and digestive issues. Potatoes should not be served with fatty meats and sauces. But we like this combination so much.

It’s also better not to serve potatoes with fatty additives like pork cracklings and butter. They will become high-calorie and challenging to digest. After such a meal, one can expect stomach aches, heartburn, and increased blood sugar levels.