Bonus Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Potatoes in Cream Sauce

There is a good reason why the potato is one of the most consumed crops in the world – it is packed with nutrients, it fills you up fast and keeps you full longer, it’s a versatile ingredient, and it’s simply enjoyable to eat. We add potatoes to most of our dishes and we also love them for snacks.

A Misconception: A Potato is All Carbs and Fattening

Did you know that a medium-sized potato (148 g, with skin) only contains 110 calories? Its carbohydrate content is of the complex type that provides energy to the body. We need complex carbohydrates because they are the primary fuel for the brain and the key source of energy for the muscles.

FYI, potatoes have more potassium than a banana! And guess what? It also has more Vitamin C (30% DV) than tomatoes (20% DV) per serving.

The spud is an ideal ingredient if you are allergic to gluten because it is naturally gluten-free. It also contains no fat, no sodium, and no cholesterol.

Enjoy a Variety of U.S. Potatoes 

Sure we love potatoes that we usually buy in supermarkets, but it’s also good to know that we can cook mouthwatering dishes using different potato varieties and forms.

In the Philippines, U.S. potatoes are available in three forms: fresh (table-stock), frozen, and dehydrated. Select supermarkets offer fresh potatoes like russets and fingerlings, while stores nationwide offer a wide variety of frozen potato cuts.

For easy-to-make mashed potatoes, pastries, and soups, try dehydrated potatoes. My kids love fries for sure, but nothing beats the convenience of having dehydrated potatoes in your pantry for whipping up a quick mashed potato meal. You may buy them at baking supply stores and groceries.

Here is a quick and flavorful potato recipe that I’m sure your family will love! I made it a bit healthier by tweaking a few ingredients. I’ve substituted heavy cream with milk and all-purpose cream. I also roasted the frozen potatoes in the air fryer for a healthier version of fries.

Garlic Parmesan Potatoes in Cream Sauce

Ingredients: 

• 1 1/2 lbs. U.S. frozen potato halves
• 10 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 chicken broth cube 
• 1/2 cup all-purpose cream
• 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• salt and pepper, to taste
• fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 piece sausage, ham, or bacon strip, chopped (optional)

Preparation: 

1. Place potatoes in air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
2. Saute chopped sausage, ham, or bacon in a cooking pan over medium heat until toasted. Set aside. (Skip this if you don’t want meat in your recipe.)
3. Using the same pan, saute garlic until fragrant.
4. Reduce the heat then add milk, flour, and cream. Stir until thick. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add air-fried potatoes, then add parmesan cheese and toasted meat. Cook over high heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. Remove from heat then garnish with parsley before serving.

Potatoes Complement A Variety of Dishes

Potatoes are typically used as extenders. A can of corned beef that’s normally for two can feed up to four people when you add potatoes. Potatoes actually stretch your food budget without compromising on flavor and taste.

As a mom and a home cook, I love how versatile potatoes can be. I can add them to soups, to saucy dishes, as a side dish to mains, or enjoy them as they are.

I’m happy that U.S. potatoes are offered locally. They truly help level up our favorite dishes. We can use them for croquettes, for soups like nilaga, and for saucy kaldereta and creamy pastel. Don’t forget, we can also use potatoes for baked goods and pastries. The possibilities are endless indeed.

To learn more about U.S. potato products and Potatoes USA in the Philippines, visit www.potatogoodness.ph or like and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

What potato dish is your ultimate fave? Let me know in the comment section below. Have a nice day!

Published: 2021-10-01 18:21:09