International Day of Potato: 9 Potato Dishes From Across The World That Are A Mashing Hit

Potatoes were first cultivated nearly 8,000 years ago, and since then have found their way into homes across the globe. Potatoes' versatility and deliciousness are what make them so popular all over the world. Fry them, boil them, bake them - there are countless ways to cook a potato. From hearty meals to healthy sides, you can never go wrong with a potato dish! So it came as no surprise to anyone when last year announced May 30th would be recognised as International Day of Potato.

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Popular Potato Dishes Across The World

Globally, potato is the third most-cultivated food crop after wheat and rice. So, let's explore 9 of the most diverse and unique potato dishes that people love to eat and the countries they originated in.

1) French Fries (Belgium/France)

Everyone is familiar with classic french fries but nobody is certain of their origin. Some say the delicious snack first appeared in France while others claim Belgium as their birthplace. French fries are made from deep-fried potatoes that have been cut into thin strips. Although classic french fries are just salted, nowadays people have started experimenting with their shapes as well as their flavourings and toppings.

2) Patatas Bravas (Spain)

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Originating in Madrid, Patatas Bravas are one of the most common Spanish tapas that you can find in almost every bar in the country. Cubed, fried and drizzled with lemon juice and a garlicky aioli, these crispy potatoes make for a yummy and flavourful snack that's perfect for sharing.

3) Gnocchi (Italy)

Gnocchi is a pasta dish that originated in Northern Italy. Traditionally the gnocchi dough is made with cooked mashed potatoes, flour and eggs. The pasta dough is then divided into small pieces and made into dumplings. The soft dumplings are boiled and then typically combined with a tomato, rag¨´ or butter sauce to create a wholesome and filling meal.

4) Poutine (Canada)

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Poutine is Canada's take on the classic french fries recipe. The dish comes in many variations but french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy is the concept. Poutine first emerged in Quebec in the late 1950s, it is served immediately after combining the main three components to maintain the crispy texture of the fries.

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5) R?sti (Switzerland)

R?sti is a Swiss dish championing potatoes that are coarsely grated and then either saut¨¦ed or shallow-fried in a pan. Originally a popular breakfast option it is now served as a side dish and not considered a complete meal. Although traditionally the R?sti is made only with potatoes, sometimes ingredients like bacon, onion, cheese, apple or fresh herbs are also added.

6) Gamja Jeon (South Korea)

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Gamja-jeon is simply a Korean-style potato pancake, made by pan-frying finely grated potato with oil until golden brown. Crunchy on the outside and chewy and soft on the inside, these pancakes are an amazing savoury option if you are bored of the classic sweet ones. Gamja-jeon is a perfect snack as it gets ready in no time with just a handful of ingredients.

7) Ellinikos Lemoni Patatas (Greece)

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside Ellinikos Lemoni Patatas (Greek lemon potatoes) is a traditional and simple side dish. A Greek take on the classic baked potato, Ellinikos Lemoni Patatas is made after combining fresh oven-roasted potatoes with a tart lemon marinade and topped with fresh herbs.

Celebrate this International Day of Potato by taking a food tour across the world riding on the back of potatoes. Take your taste buds for a spin by taking them somewhere international and enjoy these delicious delights from the comfort of your home!

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For more on travel, culture and health from around the world please visit Indiatimes Lifestyle.