Properties and Uses of Alternatives for Traditional Potatoes

There are two main types of potatoes: edible, which can be freely purchased in a vegetable store or in supermarkets, and starchy, used by industrial companies to produce potato flour, starch, dried potatoes, fries and chips. Potatoes are available all year round and form the basis of the Polish cuisine, and thus form the foundation of the average Polish diet. 100 grams of potato delivers about 77 kilocalories. Potato tubers are a valuable source of starch (18 grams/100 grams of product), protein (2 grams/100 grams of product), fiber (2.5 grams/100 grams of product), potassium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, zinc, copper, vitamin C, and B-group vitamins - thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine. In addition, by consuming potatoes, we supply the body with antioxidant substances in the form of phenolic compounds, which counteracts the development of oxidative stress. The starch contained in potatoes is a valuable source of complex carbohydrates, so it is worth consuming potatoes for the purpose of the body's energy supply. The protein contained in potatoes is rich in exogenous amino acids: lysine, leucine, phenylalanine, and threonine, which the body cannot synthesize on its own. Therefore, it is worthwhile for potatoes to be included in the diet of vegetarians, whose diet may not provide complete proteins. Potatoes are also a source of fiber, which occurs in water-soluble fractions (hemicellulose, pectin). They stimulate intestinal peristalsis and affect the enrichment of the intestinal flora. Contrary to popular belief, potatoes are not a high-calorie and difficult-to-digest product, so they should not be given up during a diet.

Sweet potatoes, also known as 'sweet potatoes', are a source of carbohydrates in the form of starch and simple sugars in a quantity of approximately 5%. They provide about 50% more nutrients than ordinary potatoes. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of amino acids for the body, both endogenous and exogenous, which the body is unable to synthesize on its own. Therefore, people who avoid meat, dairy products, or eggs should pay attention to these nutrients. Sweet potatoes are a valuable source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folic acid, choline, α-tocopherol, and vitamin K. These nutrients help counteract the negative effects of free radicals, as vitamin C, A, and tocopherols are natural antioxidants. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a source of fiber, which is important for people with atherosclerosis or those who want to improve their gut microflora, as well as for people on weight-loss diets.

Topinambur is a less recognized plant in Poland, which is classified as a herb. It is also known as bulb-sunflower, due to the fact that the bulb of this plant has a distinctive shape: round and elongated. In terms of taste, topinambur is quite specific, sweet and mild, and slightly nutty, which is not always pleasant for everyone. Topinambur is recommended for individuals with diabetes, as it contains up to 18% inulin instead of starch with a high protein-glycolin index, which is beneficial for diabetics.

Utilization in the kitchen Potato dishes, sweet potato dishes, Jerusalem artichoke dishes – potato pancakes, slices, puree, cooked potatoes, potatoes cooked in uniforms.. Addition to sweet snacks gives a creamy consistency.. addition to baking of gluten-free baking prevents water loss and gives a smooth texture to the cake.. homemade fries and chips, baked potatoes, vegetable peels etc.. ingredient soup, cream, fillings, braised dishes, salads.. Sweet potatoes Similar to potatoes.. Baking of vegetable cakes. Addition to fillings. Sweet potatoes baked with herbs, cooked on a pan and in water.. Fries, sweet potato pancakes, dumplings, puree.. Suitable for salads, braised dishes.. Jerusalem artichoke Alternative to potatoes, alcohol production.. Ingredient in soups, puree, braised dishes, salads.. Homemade fries, chips, vegetable peels.. In small amounts, it can be eaten raw.

Both potatoes, sweet potatoes, and Jerusalem artichokes are valuable and nutritious products. Individuals suffering from diabetes who should pay particular attention to fluctuations in blood sugar levels must limit their consumption of large quantities of potatoes, as they have a high glycemic index. As an alternative, they can include Jerusalem artichokes in their diet, which are rich in inulin. Potatoes and their alternatives should be consumed alternately, as each product provides different nutrients and a broad range of applications allows them to substitute each other. Potatoes, Jerusalem artichokes, and sweet potatoes are valuable sources of carbohydrates and nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is worth noting that the raw materials prepared in the right way, without using fatty sauces, do not contain many calories, therefore they can be exchanged by all people, both on the basic diet, mixed diet, and reduction diet.