August 19 - National Potato Day

Happy National Potato Day!  Ah, spuds. On August 19, each year, the humble potato takes center stage. In truth, though, doesn’t it steal the show at nearly every meal? 

Whether baked, fried or mashed, these taters bring on the flavor. They are a staple of many meals as well. 

Filling a void for appetizer dishes and working double duty at suppertime, these versatile root veggies satisfy and fill us up. 

According to the International Potato Center, more than four thousand varieties of potatoes grow around the world.  

  

https://cipotato.org/potato/potato-facts-and-figures/#:~:text=There%20are%20more%20than%204%2C000,over%20180%20wild%20potato%20species. 

  

Not only that, but they also come in a variety of beautiful colors and sizes. This starchy carbohydrate comes with no fat or cholesterol and is loaded with Vitamin C and potassium.  

  

Depending on your dietary needs and how you prepare your potatoes, this vegetable offers what many are looking for. However, with twenty-six grams of carbohydrates, it’s a no-no in a low-carb lifestyle. 

  

When it comes to the health specs of a potato, we tend to tank the benefits when we prepare them. We fry them and load them with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and butter. Who doesn’t love a loaded baked potato?  

  

Ok, ok. You can all put your hands down, now. 

  

HISTORY 

  

With so many ways to savor a potato, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a way. However, we do have a few "tater-iffic" ways to get you started: 

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• • Host a baked potato buffet. Line up all the best toppings such as cheese, jalapeños, bacon, chopped onions, chili, grilled chicken or ranch. 
• • Tried French fries dipped in soft, vanilla ice cream. If you’ve never had it before, you will be surprised. 
• • Swap out your corn chips with French fries and build a new kind of nacho. Think beer brats, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and sour cream for German flair. Aim for a bit of Irish celebration by using corned beef. 
• • Share your favorite recipes. You know, the ones you always go to when you’re craving potatoes. Or, try a new recipe and give it a review. 
• • Make a delicious potato soup. With so many different recipes, one of them is sure to satisfy! 
• • Visit your favorite restaurant and pile on the potatoes. Whether it’s an entree or an appetizer, be sure to give the eatery a shout out! 

While you’re celebrating, be sure to use #NationalPotatoDay to share on social media. 

HISTORY 

Since at least 2006, the nation’s comfort food has been celebrated. Before that, National Potato Day celebrations had been cropping up throughout the year all across the country. 

What is your favorite way to eat a potato? 

#NationalPotatoDay 

@oreidapotatoes 

@hungryjack 

@idahoanfoods 

@cipotato 

@Foodimentary 

@nichecinema