The Big Coconut: Potatoes

Scientific Name: Solanum tuberosum

Potatoes is a tuberous root crop full of fiber and potassium. It was first domesticated in Peru and it was believed that potatoes provided energy for the Incas. In parts of Europe, sailors brought with them potatoes along with other crops and resources to plant them. Actually potatoes were brought to any place where people travel. It reached to Africa where potatoes were considered poisonous but later on that changed because the colonialist promoted potatoes as a low-cost meal. In Asia, during the time of the Ming Dynasty potatoes became a delicacy in the imperial family.

Potatoes are very good to people who want to gain weight because they are full carbohydrates. They are also good for the skin because it contains Vitamin C, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc and Phosphorus. Potatoes are good to prevent high blood pressure, rheumatism, heart diseases, diarrhea, kidney stones and inflammations.

Potatoes are usually common in all types of dishes. The most common snack that was made from potatoes are french fries. Other dished includes soups, pies, creams, casseroles, salads and it can even be fried in any shape you want (don't forget the dip!).