The Potato

 Maybe some of you have food that you are thinking of giving up for this new year, or at least cut back on its' consumption.  I would have to say potatoes are really a favorite of mine. However, let's face it, starch is sugar and the carbs. are high, but the comfort value is HIGHER! A medium baked potato has about 145 calories on average, containing 0.2 fat, 33.6 carbs., 2.3 fiber, 2.7 sugar, and 3.1 protein.  Not so bad alone, but add butter and sour cream, it starts to add up.  Why not just top with salsa instead, or chopped tomato and chives.

My confession follows as to how I REALLY feel about potatoes!

The potato is a vegetable that may or may not be good for me, depending on its’ preparation. This is of no real concern to me, as I choose to incorporate the potato into as many meals as I can.  Mashed potatoes have a creamy texture that gives me a feeling of comfort; that buttery flavor  embraces me with a much needed hug.  French fried potatoes have an urgency about them, a craving that must be met quickly.  Piping hot fries, crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle; that’s the winner.  A baked potato is like a piece of art. I can eat it plain or add a rainbow of flavors like crispy bacon, butter, sharp cheese, sour cream, chives, and salsa. 

There are no limits to where I will go or what I will sacrifice to enjoy a potato.  I may drive an hour just to get the creamiest mashed potatoes, sacrificing a week of rigid calorie counting.  When French fries are calling my name, I may answer by having to get dressed late at night to make a trip to the dreaded drive thru.  There are times when I have to peruse the grocery isle for the perfect baking potato, along with the extras to go on top.  No matter where I have to go or what kind of potato is out there to try, there will always be a potato on my plate!

So tell us one of your favorite foods that may require a little "trimming" from your diet.