num_pages: 142
description: From obscure Pre-Columbian beginnings in the Andes Mountains to global popularity today the story of the potato is one of rags to riches. In Potato esteemed culinary historian Andrew F. Smith reveals the captivating story of a once lowly vegetable that has changedand continues to changethe world.First domesticated by prehistoric people in the Andes the potato has since been adopted by cultures around the globe. For instance the potato was aggressively adopted by cooks in India and China where it has become a dietary staple. In fact these two countries now stand as the worlds largest potato producers. Nonetheless despite its popularity in this era of both fast food and health consciousness the potato is now suffering negative publicity regarding its low nutritional value. Its health benefits continue to be debated especially considering that the potato is most often associated with the ubiquitous but high-calorie french fry. Potato is a captivating read that provides a concisely written but thoroughly researched account of the history economy politics and gastronomy behind this beloved starchas well as recipes. As loaded with goodies as a well-dressed baked potato this book is comforting and satisfying.
language: English
title: Potato: A Global History
publisher: Reaktion Books