One Simple Food

Travel Log #2: The Potato

The History: The potato is a simple food which has provided great nourishment for many people throughout the world.  It is native to the Americas and was initially cultivated by the Incas.  They worshipped the potato and even buried it with their dead.  Spanish explorers brought the potato to Europe where it finally took a foot hold and gained respect in Ireland.  Unfortunately, it became the complete source of feeding the nation.  The 'Great Potato Famine' reduced the population of Ireland by at least half by consequence of death or emigration.

Where to find it: In our modern lives, we have not experienced life without the potato; and we take it for granted.  Recently, we have added the baked potato to our list of 'go-to' allergy friendly and gluten free foods.  When we travel, spend the day away from home, have a spur of the moment diversion, or simply go out for dinner; the baked potato is always available.  My favorite source for a baked potato is Wendy's, but it can be found at most steak houses and restaurants. 


How to use it: If we follow our mantra of planning ahead, we will bring some dairy-free butter spread, dairy-free cheese, and some diced lunch meat to go along with the potato.  Another great option is to have individual servings of hummus or an avocado to mash into the potato.  Baking potatoes ahead of time and using them in school lunches is a great way to send your little one off to school with a hot lunch.