Potato Pot 3.5 L - Polish pottery

Polish Pottery Potato Storage Pot 3.5L


Our Polish Pottery Potato Storage Pot (3.5 liters) is the perfect solution for storing potatoes. The pot features several large ventilation holes on the sides, ensuring excellent air circulation to keep your potatoes fresh for longer. Made from handcrafted Polish pottery, it is not only functional but also a stylish addition to any kitchen. The two sturdy handles on each side make it easy and safe to carry, even when the pot is full. Ideal for storing potatoes and other root vegetables

 

The Potato (Solanum tuberosum) – Origin, Diversity & Importance

1. Origin and Ancestry

The potato (Solanum tuberosum) originates from South America, particularly the regions of present-day Peru, Bolivia, and northern Chile. It was cultivated there over 7,000 years ago by indigenous peoples. The Spanish brought the plant to Europe in the 16th century, where it was initially considered a botanical curiosity. It wasn’t until the 18th century that the potato became established as a staple food across much of Europe.

2. Variety and Types

There are over 4,000 known potato varieties worldwide, differing in shape, color, flavor, and cooking properties. In Germany alone, more than 200 varieties are officially approved. Potatoes are commonly categorized into three cooking types:

  • Waxy (firm) – e.g. Sieglinde, Linda, Annabelle: ideal for salads and pan-fried potatoes

  • All-purpose (semi-waxy) – e.g. Laura, Belana: versatile in use

  • Starchy (mealy) – e.g. Adretta, Gala: perfect for mashed potatoes, soups, and dumplings

There are also specialty varieties with purple or red skin/flesh, often used in gourmet cuisine.

3. History of the Potato in Europe

After its introduction by the Spanish in the 16th century, the potato was slow to gain popularity. Frederick the Great began systematically promoting potato cultivation in Prussia from 1744 onward (known as the “potato decree”). By the 19th century, the potato had become a key staple food in many parts of Europe and played a central role in feeding the growing population during industrialization.

4. Nutritional Content, Vitamins and Minerals

Potatoes are composed of approximately 78% water and 16–17% carbohydrates, primarily in the form of starch. They are low in fat but provide valuable nutrients:

  • Vitamins:

    • Vitamin C (10–20 mg/100 g, depending on preparation)

    • B vitamins (B1, B2, B6)

  • Minerals:

    • Potassium (approx. 400 mg/100 g)

    • Magnesium

    • Iron

    • Phosphorus

Potatoes are gluten-free, easy to digest, and ideal for a balanced diet.

5. Culinary Use

Potatoes are extremely versatile in both traditional and high-end gastronomy. They can be boiled, baked, roasted, mashed, or fried. They are also used in doughs, soups, dumplings, and even desserts.

Regional specialties include:

  • French Gratin dauphinois

  • Spanish Tortilla de patatas

  • Italian Gnocchi

  • German potato soup

  • Polish Pierogi with potato filling

Poland has long been among the countries with the highest per capita potato consumption in Europe.

6. Potatoes in Wartime Captivity (e.g., 1945 in Soviet Captivity)

After World War II, a large number of German soldiers were taken prisoner by the Soviet Union. Conditions in the camps were often harsh and food was scarce. The potato became a key staple – served as thin soup or simply boiled.

Often, potatoes were prepared in the simplest ways, sometimes with leftover grains or beets. Although overall calorie intake was low, potatoes helped prevent deficiency diseases like scurvy due to their vitamin C content (especially when cooked whole and gently).

Many prisoner accounts describe the potato as a “lifesaver,” as it was nutritious, could be grown locally, and stored well – unlike many other foods.


Popular Potato Side Dishes (List)

  • Boiled potatoes

  • Potatoes in their skins

  • Fried potatoes

  • Baked potatoes

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Potato gratin

  • Potato salad

  • Rösti

  • Potato dumplings / Klöße

  • French fries

  • Potato wedges

  • Croquettes

  • Potato croquettes

  • Potato pancakes / Reibekuchen

  • Duchess potatoes

  • Potato mash

  • Potato rösti

  • Potato balls

  • Potato casserole


7. Per Capita Potato Consumption in the EU (ca. 2023)

Country Per Capita Consumption (kg/year)
Germany approx. 57 kg
Poland approx. 100 kg
Ireland approx. 85 kg
Netherlands approx. 60 kg
France approx. 50 kg
Italy approx. 38 kg
Spain approx. 31 kg