The potato , also known as Pope , is a tuber which has its origin in South America but that, at present, is cultivated in various regions of the planet. He Solanum tuberosum (denomination of the potato at the scientific level) is one of the most important foods for humanity.
The potato tuber, which grows underground, harbors nutrients from the plant . Although the characteristics change according to the variety in question, potatoes are usually grown in sandy-type soils that have a good level of humus.
Potatoes have vitamin C, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium and other components that are essential in the diet of the human being That is why its consumption is very popular in a large number of countries.
The forms of consumption are very diverse. For example, potatoes can boil in Water and salt to be consumed directly in this way or to crush once boiled and pureed. With mashed potatoes you can also make croquettes, sandwiches, suflés and puddings.
The chips , also known as french fries , they are usually the accompaniment chosen for numerous dishes, although they are also consumed as an appetizer. In this case, the potato is peeled, cut into sticks and fried in abundance oil . When they are golden brown, they are removed from the oil, dried with absorbent paper and some salt added.
The combination of chips, eggs and other ingredients (such as bacon or onion, for example) allows you to create the famous omelette . Strict vegetarians do not consume any product of animal origin, but that does not prevent them from making delicious potato tortillas, since the only main ingredient they refuse to use is the egg, and they can replace it with a mixture of water and chickpea flour, among other possibilities.
Another of the foods of great popularity that include potatoes as an essential component are the gnocchi . In this case, a recipe simple requires the following ingredients, thinking of a ration for two people: a large or two medium potatoes; 1/4 of flour; spices to taste, including coarse and fine salt; olive butter (also called butter).
Gnocchi preparation is quick and easy. First, the potatoes should be washed, peeled and boiled until it is possible to prick them with a fork; it is important to take a spoonful of Salt thick in the water (some people prefer to do it from the beginning, while others ensure that it is convenient once the boil begins). When the potatoes are cooked, they must be removed from the heat and placed in a suitable container for the preparation of the dough, such as a bowl.
To make the dough you must start by stepping on the potatoes together with a generous spoonful of olive butter and the desired spices, such as fine salt, parsley, oregano and pepper powder. Once a paste is achieved, water and flour are added so that it gradually becomes a mixture similar to that used for Pizza . The most recommended is to knead on an allowance, previously placing a layer of flour to prevent the bun from sticking; This allows you to use both hands and achieve better consistency.
When the dough is no longer sticky but has become malleable and elastic, it is time to cut it into small buns and start stretching them to form long cylindrical strips, which, in turn, must be cut into pieces that will finally be , the potato gnocchi. As the last optional step, so that the presentation is more pleasant and professional, each gnocchi can be passed through a fork so that the typical ones are formed gutters what do they give that appearance unmistakable
It should be noted, finally, that the potato can be fermented to obtain vodka and other alcoholic drinks.
