You’ve probably seen them… South Africa’s most loved spuds, morphing from golden to green, milky and all sort of gooey textures. At times this can be accompanied by a “spunky” smell or sprouts taking over what seemed to be the perfect spud. Just in case you’re wondering what you can do to show some love to your favourite tatters, keep reading.
Too much of a good thing…
In as much as spuds are known the world over for lasting longer than several other veggies, as well as being tasty, versatile and convenient – potatoes also have a “life span”. No kidding, fresh potatoes can be stored successfully for 2-3 weeks in a cool, dark place that is well ventilated.
When “going green” ain’t cool
Don’t get us wrong; green is the way to go when it comes to environmental factors such as limiting pollution, recycling and reusing materials. Yet when it comes to potatoes, many will argue that green potatoes are an exception to the going green norm. Potatoes turn green when they are exposed to natural light (such as the sun) or artificial light. While it makes the potato taste somewhat bitter, you will be relieved to know that the green substance is not toxic. Just remove it, and enjoy your spud in any one of these free potato-inspired recipes found on Potato Nations’ website.
“Help! My spud is morphing!”
Normally, you’d think that soil is needed for “roots” and sprouts to form. Yet, being potatoes, with some kind of superpower to help alleviate global hunger, potatoes can shrivel and even start sprouting in warm places. In case you’re thinking of storing them in the refrigerator, think again.
Potatoes are not cold-hearted
Potatoes rot in moist conditions. In the fridge (with the temperature around 3 and 5 °C), the starch in potatoes is converted into simple sugars. This results in a change in texture (they become glassy), and the taste changes to become somewhat sweet.
Potatoes are truly an underground hidden treasure that goes all out to serve as a cost-effective source of energy, nutrition and satiety. Considering how much potatoes do for us, do them some good by reading up on vital cooking hints to “extend the life span” of your potatoes. After all, sometimes “love back” is the way to go.
