Russet Potatoes – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What are russet potatoes?

Russet potatoes are a high-starch potato that features a snowy white exterior and an arid interior. They are best used for baking, although they make excellent mashed potatoes because of their ability to absorb added liquids. Russet potatoes are also the perfect variety to use for making french fries.

Where did russet potatoes originate from?

Potatoes, in general, originated from the Andes of Peru. But russet potatoes come from a Vermont farmer’s efforts to breed a different variety of potatoes. In 1872 in Massachusetts, a botanist took one of the farmer’s seeds in the hopes of creating a giant potato, and the russet potatoes were the result.

Today, they’re mostly produced in Idaho and are often referred to as Idaho potatoes because of this.

What are the nutritional value and benefits of eating russet potatoes?

Russet potatoes are a staple in almost every household and are inexpensive. They are easily available in stores and are a common choice to incorporate in meals. They also offer plenty of nutritional benefits with a variety of vitamins and minerals.

The nutritional content can vary depending on how the russet potatoes are cooked; however, you help boost the available nutrients by leaving the skins on. Russet potatoes have the following vitamins and minerals:

• Protein
• Carbs
• Fiber
• Manganese
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B6
• Potassium
• Niacin
• Folate

Russet potatoes have resistant starch, which is not fully absorbed or broken down by the body. The benefit to this is that once the starch reaches the large intestine, it introduces beneficial bacteria to your digestive system, which helps reduce insulin resistance and improves blood sugar.

Another benefit to consuming russet potatoes is that they are very filling. The starch and cholecystokinin protein can help curb hunger and regulate or aid in weight loss by leaving you feeling fuller longer.

Russet potatoes are naturally gluten-free, which is helpful for people who may have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Introducing russet potatoes will benefit those experiencing discomfort like stomach pains, bloating, constipation, or skin rashes.

How are russet potatoes grown?

Growing russet potatoes is a long process that typically takes 3 to 4 months. Freezing or hot temperatures will not produce a good crop, so they’ll require neutral temperatures.

Russet potatoes need well-drained soil with an ample amount of moisture. They develop large hollow spots in their skin where flowering develops, and because of this, they require more water than usual. They should have 6 to 7 hours of direct sunlight to promote growth.

Russet potatoes seeds are cut into small pieces, and they’ll have leafy bud “eyes.” The seeds should be dried out before planting. Growers will typically dust the seeds with sulfur to help reduce the chance of the russet potatoes developing disease.

Russet potato seeds are planted 3in into the ground and 1ft apart into rows. They are planted in hills, containers, or raised beds.

When the russet potatoes are ready to be harvested, they’ll start to turn yellow. The russet potato plants should be cut down after 4 months so the tubers can dry for a few days before digging them for removal. When they’re ready to be dug up, growers must be gentle to avoid bruises or cuts to the russet potatoes that can hinder their shelf life.

Russet potatoes should not be washed because this could promote premature decay; instead, the soil should be gently brushed off.

When are russet potatoes in season?

Russet potatoes are in season from mid-August through September. But you can find them year-round at your local grocery store with the help of Instacart.

What should I look for when buying russet potatoes at the store?

When buying russet potatoes, look for varieties that are heavy and don’t have a lot of “eyes,” as they can limit the lifespan of the potato. Their skins should be smooth and free of blemishes or bruises. It’s best to avoid any potatoes that may be green in color because the taste will be bitter, and they may have toxins.

You can easily shop for russet potatoes through Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for russet potatoes.

How to store russet potatoes

Russet potatoes should be kept in a dark, cool, and dry place like a pantry, cabinet, or basement. They can typically be stored from 4 to 5 weeks, perhaps even longer depending on how ripe they were when they were harvested and their storage conditions.

How to tell if russet potatoes are bad

When russet potatoes go bad, their skin will start to show dark spots and blemishes. Their firm exterior will also start feeling mushier, and these root vegetables will develop a foul odor.

What can I substitute for russet potatoes?

Finding the perfect substitute for russet potatoes will depend on what dish you will be using the potatoes in.

Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for a substitution where a recipe calls for a creamy or buttery flavor. They tend to be creamier than the russet potatoes, so be mindful and do not over mix when making a mashed potato dish. Another yellow variety that would match the Yukon Gold or the russet potatoes is the Yellow Finn.

Where to find and buy russet potatoes

Instacart offers a variety of russet potatoes as well as comparable alternatives. Depending on your schedule, Instacart also offers flexible same-day pick-up or delivery options. Use Instacart to shop for russet potato produce and other fresh vegetables. Your Instacart shopper can leave your order at the door for added convenience if you decide to choose delivery, and they’ll even let you know when it’s arrived.

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