Nutritious U.S. Potatoes Whip Up A World Of Flavours On World Nutrition Day

Potatoes USA is celebrating World Nutrition Day with the theme “A World Of Flavours” which falls on May 28 with 20 key Malaysian social media influencers whipping up a repertoire of tantalizing and nutritious dishes using U.S. potatoes as a key ingredient, at the TCH Foodworks Culinary Workspace in PJ, recently.

Potatoes USA is celebrating World Nutrition Day with the theme A World of Flavours

U.S. potatoes, whether fresh or frozen, are a very versatile ingredient that could inspire a wide repertoire of dishes—from appetisers, soups, main dishes to desserts. In addition, U.S. potatoes are nutrient-dense providing energy, key vitamins and minerals and is more energy-packed than any other popular vegetables.

According to consultant dietitian Indra Balaratnam one medium U.S. potato provides about 110 calories of easy-to-digest calories, has zero cholesterol, zero sodium and zero fat. U.S. potatoes are also a nutrient dense vegetable making it a healthy food choice to maintain the family’s health.

One medium U.S. Potato contains 26 grams of carbohydrates (9% daily value) to fuel one’s muscles and brain, and protein to aid in building cells and muscles. In addition, U.S. Potatoes are rich in Vitamin C (30% daily value) which makes healthier meals and play a key role in supporting the body’s immune system.

Ms Tania Lee, a sports dietitian also shared tips on the benefits of U.S. Potatoes for those leading active, athletic lifestyles. “Potatoes can fuel the body and boost sport performance. Carbohydrates are a key fuel for muscles during exercise and for its recovery after one’s workout session hence it is crucial for optimal physical and mental performance.

“Potatoes have 3 grams of protein per serving which are great building blocks for growth and a key component of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues. Potassium is a mineral that is an electrolyte for muscles to function well. One U.S. Potato gives you 15% of your daily potassium serving, and that’s more than what a medium banana provides,” explained Tania.

(From left) Eddie, Tania, Indra & Timothy showcasing a variety of U.S. potato dishes

At the event, dietitian Indra Balaratnam created four scrumptious and healthy recipes using U.S. potatoes – U.S. Russet Potato Muffins, U.S. Potato Feta & Parsley Croquette, U.S. Russet Potato Green Apple Kerabu and Texmex Style U.S. Potato Skins. Indra explained that these dishes are easy to make and are popular with Malaysians as their flavours are appetizing and easily titillate the palates to serve at any family gatherings as well as for quick meals.

U.S. Potato Feta And Parsley Croquette

Russet Potato Muffins

All 20 social media influencers put their chef’s hat on and created their own recipes using U.S. Potatoes which reflected the versatility, variety of tastes, scrumptiousness, and simplicity in their creations.

Texmex Style U.S. Potato Skins

Russet Potato Green Apple Kerabu

The top three winning dishes were:

• Grand Prize – Potato Waffle with Potato Smoothie, created by Khairul & Mawardi
• 1st Runner-up – U.S. Potatoes Satay, created by Kelly & Wilson
• 2nd Runner-up – U.S. Potato Poke Bowl, created by Kathy & Christy

Eddie Saw, Market Representative of Potatoes USA and Timothy Harrison, Regional Agricultural Attaché, Foreign Agricultural Service, U.S. Embassy Kuala Lumpur were the VIPs at the event.