Have you heard of purple potatoes? They’re not just a fun new color for your next potato salad. These vibrant spuds are nutritional powerhouses that deserve a spot on your plate. Their nutrients can protect your body on the cellular level. Best of all, they have a fabulous earthy, nutty taste that makes them ideal for many dishes. If you’re ready to add more nutrition, antioxidants, and delicious flavor to your meals, it’s time to learn purple potatoes. Get willing to take your potato game to a healthy new level!
What Are Purple Potatoes?
Purple potatoes belong to a group of exotic potato varieties naturally rich in anthocyanins, giving them a vivid purple color. They are starchy, nutritious root vegetables. Unlike regular white potatoes, purple potatoes have a distinctive flavor and texture. They tend to be denser, nuttier, and slightly sweeter. Their color comes from antioxidants called anthocyanins, the same compounds that give their bright hues to blueberries, blackberries, and red cabbage. Purple potatoes have a rough, thick skin and flesh that ranges from dark purple to red-purple. They have an earthy, nutty flavor with subtle sweet undertones.
Nutrition Facts and Benefits of Purple Potatoes
Purple potatoes are nutritional powerhouses. One medium potato contains about 110 calories and provides vitamin C, B6, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants.
High in Antioxidants :The pigments that give purple potatoes their bright color also provide antioxidants called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins help neutralize harmful free radicals in your body and may help reduce the risk of diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
A good source of vitamin C: is a single medium purple potato, which contains about 27% of your daily vitamin C needs. Vitamin C is essential for immune function and healthy skin. It acts as an antioxidant and helps absorb iron from plant-based foods.
Heart Healthy: Purple potatoes are high in potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure. They also contain resistant starch compounds that may help lower heart disease risk. Resistant starch acts like fiber and feeds the good bacteria in your gut.
Versatile and Delicious: Don’t let the color fool you; purple potatoes have an earthy, nutty flavor and starchy texture similar to russet potatoes. They work well in most potato recipes, like mashed potatoes, french fries, soups, and stews. Their color dulls when cooked but still provides the same nutritional benefits. Purple potatoes deserve a place in your regular rotation of nutritious veggies.
Potential Downsides to Eating Purple Potatoes
While purple potatoes offer many nutritional benefits, there are a few potential downsides.
High Starch Content: Purple potatoes are starchy vegetables, containing about 18-20 grams of carbohydrates per half-cup serving. For some, the high starch content may pose issues with blood sugar regulation or weight management. If you have diabetes or are watching your carb intake, consume purple potatoes in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Oxalate Content: Purple potatoes also contain oxalates, naturally occurring compounds in many plant foods. Oxalates can increase the risk of kidney stones in some people when consumed in high amounts. While the oxalate content of purple potatoes is relatively low, if you have kidney issues or a history of kidney stones, check with your doctor whether purple potatoes fit into your diet plan.
Lectin Content: Like other nightshade vegetables, purple potatoes contain lectins, proteins that can irritate the digestive system in large amounts. For most people, the lectin content in standard portion sizes of purple potatoes does not pose a problem. However, some individuals may experience discomfort like bloating, gas, or other symptoms.
Delicious Purple Potato Recipes to Try
Purple Potato Pancakes: Pancakes are always a favorite breakfast treat, so why not add some color with purple potatoes? Grate about two cups of cooked purple potatoes and mix them into your pancake batter. The potatoes will turn the pancakes into a pretty lavender hue. Top them with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of sour cream. These purple pancakes are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy.
Purple Potato soup: a chilly day, cozy up with a bowl of creamy purple potato soup. Sauté diced onions and garlic in butter, then add chopped purple potatoes, vegetable broth, and your choice of milk or cream. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then puree some of the soup to give it a thick and creamy consistency—season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Top the soup with crispy bacon bits, chives, and shredded cheese for extra decadence.
Purple Potato Salad: Give your summer barbecues a pop of color with purple potato salad. Dice purple potatoes and hard-boiled eggs and mix with mayonnaise and herbs like dill and parsley. You can also add diced pickles or celery for some crunch. The purple potatoes will turn the entire salad into vivid violet. This unusual and delicious potato salad will surely be a conversation starter at your next picnic or potluck.
Purple Potato Chips Homemade: potato chips are always a treat, and purple potato chips take snacking to a new level. Slice purple potatoes thinly, then toss with oil and your favorite spices. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 400 F, flipping once, until crisp, about 15-20 minutes. Purple potato chips pair perfectly with a creamy dip like sour cream, guacamole, or garlic aioli. Your guests will be amazed at the color and flavor of these irresistible purple chips.
Conclusion
So there you have it - the fantastic purple potato! With their vibrant color and impressive health benefits, these spuds are a superfood worth adding to your diet. Though they may not be as common as traditional white potatoes, seek them out for a delicious and nutritious alternative. Try them mashed, baked, roasted, or in salads and other recipes to enjoy their slightly sweeter, nuttier taste. Just be mindful of potential side effects if you eat too many. In moderation, purple potatoes can be a tasty addition to a balanced diet and provide antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Give these colorful tubers a shot - your body and taste buds will thank you!
