Foodie Friday: 5 ways to cook potatoes

Potatoes are a widely consumed staple food around the globe, alongside wheat, corn, and rice. The reasons behind the potato's immense popularity are numerous, including its remarkable versatility as a food ingredient. Not only are they packed with fibre, protein, iron, and vitamin C, but they also taste delicious.

Given their ease of preparation, the possibilities for potato dishes are seemingly endless, and we could list at least fifty ways to cook them. However, we'll begin by sharing five of our favourite potato recipes that never fail to satisfy our taste buds.

1. Roasting

Roasting potatoes in the oven is a classic and delicious way to cook them. The crisp outer layer and tender inside make for the perfect combination. Drizzle some olive oil, sprinkle some rosemary and sea salt on top, and roast them until they're golden brown. The result is a savoury and aromatic side dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

2. Mashed

Mashed potatoes are a comforting and creamy side dish that can be flavoured in various ways. Boil the potatoes, mash them and then mix in some butter, cream, garlic, and grated parmesan cheese. The result is a rich and velvety texture with a flavorful punch that pairs well with any protein or vegetable.

3. Hasselback

Hasselback potatoes are visually stunning and have a satisfying crunch to them. Slice the potatoes almost all the way through and brush them with melted butter or oil. Sprinkle with your favourite spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, and chilli powder. Bake them in the oven until they're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. To spice it up, you can even add cheese or bacon in between the slices.

4. French Fries

Crispy, golden brown French fries are irresistible. Cut the potatoes into thin strips, coat them in a mixture of cornstarch and spices, and then fry them in hot oil until they're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve them with your favourite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, or ranch dressing.

5. Grilled

Grilled potatoes have a smoky flavour that adds depth to the dish. Slice the potatoes into thick rounds and brush them with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or parsley. Grill them over high heat until they're tender on the inside and slightly charred on the outside. The result is a hearty and flavorful side dish that's perfect for summer barbecues or outdoor gatherings.