Choose potatoes that are firm and free of sprouts, green skin, or spots. Prolonged storage in light can cause uncooked potatoes to turn green. Green potatoes may contain a substance called solanine, which can have a bitter flavor and can be toxic. If you've purchased potatoes that have turned green, be sure to trim off the green areas before using. To prevent potatoes from greening, they should be stored in a dark, cool place that is well ventilated. Such storage will prevent potatoes from "sprouting". Always trim sprouts before cooking potatoes if they are present.
Once cut, uncooked potatoes can take on bluish or dark tints. Potatoes that become discolored in this way are safe to eat, and the color usually disappears when the potato is cooked. To prevent cut potatoes from discoloring, immerse them in cold water until ready to use, for up to two hours. However, extended storage in cold water is not recommended as it can result in loss of some of the potatoes' water-soluble nutrients.
Cooked potatoes are subject to discoloration, too. Sometimes, a gray-blue or blackish area develops as the cooked potato cools. This is harmless, and any discolored area can simply be cut away.
Long before there were potatoes, Idaho started getting ready for them. Volcanoes erupted and mineral-rich ash naturally made the fields that would produce the best potatoes the earth could give. Nearly 10 million years later, in 1836, a missionary in Idaho taught the Nez Perce Indians to plant as an alternative to hunting. Soon after, hungry pioneers were trading goods for the tribe's potatoes. Today, nearly one-third of the nation's potatoes are produced in Idaho. Our mineral-rich soil, warm sunshine, sparkling clear water, clean air and average 125-day growing season transform the Russet potato into an extraordinary potato with ideal characteristics. One taste of a fresh Idaho Potato and we think you'll agree it was worth waiting 10 million years.
Russet potatoes are a widely used potato type in the United States. Russets are available year-round and are grown in most U.S. growing regions with a large majority being grown in the Northwest. These potatoes are high in starch and are characterized by netted brown skin and white flesh. Great for baking, frying, boiling, roasting, sautéing, etc.
Wada Farms Potatoes specializes in growing Idaho russet variety potatoes. Idaho is the largest potato growing state, producing a third of the country's crop. Idaho's distinctive russet potato variety is the culinary superior Burbank, with higher dry matter and less water content, making it the choice of restaurant operators because of its light, fluffy texture and great taste. The alternative to the Burbank is the Norkotah. This early variety potato is characterized by its smooth skin and uniform shape.
White potatoes are available year-round. They are medium in starch level and have smooth, light tan skin with white flesh. These are creamy in texture and hold their shape well after cooking. Regarded an all-purpose potato, round whites are very versatile and can be used in most potato preparations.
Red potatoes are also available year round. Round Red's are characterized by their rosy red skin and white flesh. Red potatoes have a firm, smooth, and moist texture, making them well suited for salads, roasting, boiling and steaming.
Yellow flesh potatoes are available year round. These potatoes have a dense, creamy texture. With their golden color, you can be fooled into thinking that they are buttered. They are a good choice for mashed potatoes.
Red skin yellow flesh potatoes are available year round. Noted for their distinctive rose-colored skin and gold-colored flesh. This potato features a buttery and smooth texture.
Fingerling potatoes are available year round. Narrow finger-shaped potatoes called "fingerlings" are used for roasting, boiling, baking and salads. They are considered a gourmet variety and should be cooked whole and unpeeled. Typically found in three varieties including the Russian Banana, Purple Peruvian, and Red Thumb. Available on their own or as a medley pack.
Sweet potatoes are available year round. Sweet potatoes typically have a dark orange flesh. They have a smooth texture and are starchy and sweet. They are also rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, beta carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. They are great baked, boiled, fried, or boiled.