By: Erik Subashi

Before beginning, it must be established that this article is not about personal preference. Some people choose not to like potatoes, and that choice will be respected. However, from an objective standpoint, it can be argued that potatoes are the greatest food ever. They are easy to grow and store, affordable, nutritious, and versatile. On top of that, they are enjoyed and used in different cultures all over the world. The importance and excellence of the potato, when compared to other foods, is evident. 

Many nations have depended upon potatoes throughout their history to sustain themselves. The potato’s universal appeal and significance attests to its grandeur. 

To start, potatoes are easy to grow. They thrive in a variety of terrains and typically only need 90 to 120 days to fully mature. Additionally, they can be stored in nearly any environment without spoiling. This quality makes them relatively affordable compared to most other fruits and vegetables, which can only be stored for a few days and in specific temperatures without rotting. As a result, potatoes have become a staple in many households. 

Potatoes are also very nutritional. They are an excellent source of fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, traces of potassium, and more, while being low in sodium, virtually fat-free, and cholesterol-free. Simply put, potatoes are a healthy food choice. 

Potatoes are also incredibly versatile in the kitchen as they can be prepared in many ways. Some popular preparations of potatoes include fries, roasted potatoes, boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes, chips, baked potatoes, stuffed potatoes, potato soup, hash browns, tater tots, potato salad, gnocchi, and certain noodles — the list goes on. While other foods can be prepared in a few different ways, they do not compare to the traditional styles and flavours that the potato can offer. With their nutritional value, potatoes are an excellent choice for any meal, whether as a snack, side dish, or entrée. 

Finally, potatoes are a prominent food across many cultures. While some may not prefer them, it can confidently be said that they are enjoyed globally. Their widespread popularity and the fact that they are a generally uncontroversial food (since when has someone complained about how well their potato was cooked?) reflect their significance in global cuisine. Many nations have depended upon potatoes throughout their history to sustain themselves. The potato’s universal appeal and significance attests to its grandeur. 

To conclude, potatoes are accessible, affordable, versatile, and enjoyed throughout many cultures. These qualities set it apart from other foods from a practical standpoint. While they might be hard to carry in large quantities and must be cooked, these minor inconveniences are not reasonable grounds to question the superiority of the potato.