Potato
Potato Production
Potatoes are a very important food staple and are used as the foundation of meals across the world. They are packed with vitamins, such as vitamin C, and energy.
Growing Potatoes
Potatoes are grown by planting seed potatoes. They are planted in mounds to allow the correct environment for root growth. The roots develop tubers (potatoes) full of starches which we then harvest and eat!
Harvesting Potatoes
Potatoes are harvested by a specialized machine which:
Chops and disposes of the foliage above ground
Digs potatoes out from the ground
Separates potatoes from surrounding soil
The potatoes are then transferred to the processing facilities.
Processing
Potatoes are cleaned and then sent through a machine that separates based on size. It gently shakes the potatoes over a mesh and only potatoes matching the size of the mesh will fall through.
Potatoes are then bagged and sent off to be eaten or for further processing.
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Ireland
Although countries around the world grow and depend on potatoes as a large part of their diet, Ireland has the most famous history in potato production.
A History of Potatoes
In the 1800s, Potatoes were the main crop in Ireland and made up the diets of many citizen, especially those in poverty. When the Potato blight hit in 1845, the country was devastated as the majority of their food supply rotted in the ground. This led to a dark time in Ireland's history and is still talked about to this day.
Potato as a Staple
Today potatoes, corned beef, and cabbage are key components for many traditional meals in Ireland. Many dishes, such as the Shepherd's Pie pictured to the right, use potatoes as a base.
A Glimpse of the Past
Just as eating potatoes in traditional Irish meals give a glimpse into the past, so does exploring the Irish country side. Ireland is full of beautiful views and the occasional stone castle.
Potatoes for Days
Potatoes are a very versatile food and can be made into a delicious side or meal by simply adding some seasoning (or eating plain). You and a partner will work together to make a simple potato dish to share with the class.
If you want students to make this during one class period, add that restriction to the requirements.
All recipes will only require potatoes, oil, and seasonings, if you want to allow students to expand their search / add more items (such as butter and cheese) then expand the requirements on the worksheet.
Materials:
Internet access for recipe acquisition
Potatoes, oil, assorted seasonings
Cooking area
Procedure:
Day 1:
Choose a partner
Use the Potatoes for Days activity to create / find a recipe and receive teacher approval.
Obtain all necessary ingredients
Day 2:
Wash your hands
Obtain all necessary ingredients
Prepare potatoes according to your teacher- approved recipe
Listen to all instruction given about use of kitchen facilities
Serve your potatoes
Proceed to discussion questions
Discussion Questions
How difficult was it to make your potato recipe?
What did you like / dislike about your potato dish?
If you had to choose a favorite out of the dishes prepared, which would you choose and why?
Why do you think potatoes are a staple in many people's diets?