The Nutritional Value Of The Potato
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1. Calories: A potato weighs approximately 80 and 300 g. There are different kinds of potatoes, which can vary in colour from yellow to purple. This vegetable is always consumed cooked but it can be prepared in many ways. When steamed, the potato contains only 80 calories per 100 g. This intake varies depending on the method of cooking: chips obviously contain many more calories because they are cooked in oil. Chips contain about 400 calories per 100 g.
2. The plant: The potato is a herbaceous plant composed of stems and leaves, up to a metre in height. It is the tubers of the plant that can be eaten and called potatoes. These vegetables are usually planted after the winter and are harvested in the spring or summer depending on regions and varieties.
3. Choose the right potato: To choose a good potato, it should not show any signs of germination, blackening or greening. It is important to store it away from light, in a cool and dry place.
4. Vitamins and minerals: This vegetable is very rich in carbohydrates, which gives it the nutritional qualities of a starchy food. In addition, it contains a significant amount of potassium, but also some magnesium and phosphorus. Rich in fibre, it promotes intestinal transit and the feeling of satiety. In addition, it also contains vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant and helps the body to better absorb iron.
5. How to cook: There are many ways to cook the potato. It is best to cook potato directly in its skin, steamed for 20 to 25 minutes. Peeling before cooking removes some of the vitamins and minerals it contains. The potato can also be cooked in water. It can also be pureed, sautéed, baked, fried or put in an omelette. It goes very well with cheese, but also with fish, or alongside other vegetables such as carrots or peas. It is best to eat organic potatoes to preserve all their nutritional qualities and avoid ingesting chemicals.
