French fries are often the first thing that people think of when they think of potatoes. Fries are a worldwide favorite because they are golden, crispy, and irresistible. However, the simple potato has considerably more uses than one may imagine. Potatoes are the main ingredient in a plethora of ethnic cuisines that honor culture, taste, and comfort, from buttery Eastern European casseroles to fiery Indian curries. These international potato recipes will show you how versatile this food can be if you like experimenting in the kitchen.
Yes, we’ll even look at how using inspiration from across the world may give a decent baked potatoes recipe new life.
Patatas Bravas From Spain
Patatas bravas are a staple at Spanish tapas bars. The fiery tomato-based sauce and perhaps a dollop of creamy aioli accompany these crispy fried potato pieces. Patatas bravas are more rustic than fries; they are mushy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The heat is provided by the hot sauce, which is often spiced with chile and smoky paprika. It’s the ideal little dish to share or to start a strong-tasting dinner.
India: Gobi Aloo and Other
Numerous potato-based cuisines, many of which are plant-based and loaded with spices, may be found in India. One of the most well-known is aloo gobi, a dry curry prepared with cauliflower (gobi) and potatoes (aloo), flavored with ginger, garlic, turmeric, and cumin. It is often eaten with flatbreads like roti or naan and has an earthy, fragrant flavor.
Another mainstay is aloo tikki, which are crispy potato patties seasoned with spices and herbs and usually eaten as part of Indian street cuisine or with chutneys. Additionally, potatoes are essential to samosas, which are deep-fried pastries stuffed with peas and spicy potatoes.
Papa a la Huancaína, Peru
Potatoes are more than simply sustenance in Peru; they are a source of pride for the country. The Andes are home to more than 3,000 different types of potatoes, so Peruvians know how to prepare them in a variety of ways. A particularly noteworthy meal is papa a la huancaína, a chilled appetizer consisting of cooked yellow potatoes covered in a rich, fiery cheese sauce prepared with evaporated milk, ají amarillo peppers, queso fresco, and garlic.
Gamja Jorim, Korea
Baby potatoes are simmered in a soy-based sauce to make gamja jorim, a sweet and savory side dish in Korean cooking. The tastes of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil are gradually absorbed by the potatoes during lengthy simmering. The final product is a soft, shiny potato that tastes caramelized and goes well with grilled meats and rice. For those who want a blend of sweet and salty flavors, it’s a tasty and surprising way to eat potatoes.
Colcannon, Ireland
This classic Irish meal is made with mashed potatoes, butter, cream, and either kale or cabbage. Called colcannon, it’s robust, rustic, and ideal for colder climates. Colcannon, which is often consumed at Halloween in Ireland, has evolved into a comfort food mainstay. It’s a fantastic substitute for traditional mashed potatoes and goes well with meats like sausages or corned beef.
Japan: Korokke
Japanese korokke, which are deep-fried potato patties topped with panko breadcrumbs and stuffed with meat or veggies, are modeled after French croquettes. A common snack or bento-box item, korokke is light and crispy on the exterior and soft on the inside. Usually, they come with shredded cabbage on the side and a dab of tonkatsu sauce.
By preparing the foundation using a baked potato recipe and then shaping and baking the patties with a small brush of oil rather than deep-frying them, you may also attempt a baked version.
Conclusion
The potato has become a popular element in many countries, from the creamy casseroles of France to the spice-filled Indian cuisine. With so many culinary ideas available, there’s no need to limit yourself to fries. Think of going worldwide the next time you go for a spud. You’ll be surprised at how far the potato can take you—no passport necessary—whether you attempt a new dish like patatas bravas or just upgrade your baked potatoes recipe with cosmopolitan toppings.