I can’t tell you how often people ask me if they can eat potatoes. Even more often I hear, “I can’t eat white potatoes they are so bad for you.” Once a lady emailed me admitting she hadn’t eaten a potato in 15 years. In her attempts to lose weight she had avoided carbs and starchy vegetables but was now embracing a plant-based diet.
What do the Plant-Based Experts Say?
I’ll admit that the potato issue isn’t completely cut and dry. There is some disagreement among the plant-based experts. Some doctors like Dr. McDougall practically encourage unlimited potatoes while Dr. Fuhrman and other recommend limiting white potatoes if you are overweight or diabetic.
For most experts it depends on the individuals unique medical situation.
Why you Should Eat Potatoes
1. Potatoes are full of important nutrients like potassium, vitamin B-6, vitamin C and more.
2. Potatoes are fat-free, cholesterol-free, sodium-free and low in sugar.
3. Potatoes are high in fiber and most people don’t get enough fiber.
4. Potatoes are inexpensive and have a long shelf life is stored properly.
Types of Potatoes & Ways to Enjoy Them
There are over 100 varieties of potatoes. I most often eat Russet, White, Red, Sweet Potatoes, and Yams but choices vary by region.
I believe the biggest problem with potatoes is the way we choose to eat them. Most potatoes are fried in oil, served as chips, or topped with added fats in the form of oil or dairy.
Potatoes can easily be baked or roasted in the oven and taste just as good when “baked” in the Crock Pot. Some people prefer to steam or boil potatoes as well.
My Favorite Potato Recipes
I’ll often grab a leftover baked potato as a snack or a quick breakfast. I have lots of potato recipes but some of my favorite meals are happy accidents with leftover potatoes and whatever else is on hand.
Pictured above you’ll find Taco Potatoes, Dirty Mashed Potatoes, Lentil and Potato Stew and Breakfast Tacos/Burritos.
More favorites (pictured below) include Sweet Potato Casserole, Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, Light & Fluffy Mashed Potatoes and Bean & Potato Burritos.
My most popular potato recipe is my Slow Cooker Potato Soup. It’s really easy to make and absolutely delicious. See my Recipe Page for more recipes featuring potatoes.
Don’t miss the previous installments of the Plant-Based Basics Series.
