On the surface, the starchy root vegetable that we all know and love as the potato may seem humble but dig a little deeper and you’ll find that this versatile crop is a culinary passport, connecting cultures, comfort foods, and centuries of history. In honour of National Potato Day, we’re taking you on a global tour of eight iconic potato dishes that show just how far the spud has travelled and how deeply rooted it is in kitchens all around the world.
India: Aloo Gobi
Aloo (potato) and gobi (cauliflower) are the stars of this North Indian curry. Seasoned with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other warm spices, it’s a vegetarian staple that proves you don’t need meat to make a dish rich, filling and flavourful – you just need potatoes! Bonus: this dish can easily be made vegan too.
Spain: Patatas Bravas
In tapas bars across Spain, patatas bravas take centre stage. These crispy fried potato cubes are served with a smoky paprika tomato sauce and aioli. Every region of Spain has its own twist on the brava sauce, which only adds to the intrigue!
Ireland: Colcannon
This is the ultimate Irish comfort food, creamy mash blended with cabbage or kale with lashings of butter. It’s traditionally eaten on St Patrick’s Day and on the feast day of St Brigid. You can also add other vegetables to this dish such as leek or scallions (spring onions). In Ireland, it’s eaten as a side dish to corned beef, leg of lamb, or just about any meat!
Peru: Causa
Potatoes were first cultivated in Peru over 7,000 years ago, and Causa is a proud showcase of their heritage. This vibrant layered dish starts with mashed yellow potatoes mixed with lime and chilli, and is often filled with tuna, avocado, or chicken salad. Served cold, it’s as much art as it is food.
Russia: Olivier Salad
A festive favourite, this Russian potato salad, named after a Belgian chef in 1860s Moscow, is richer and more indulgent than its Western counterparts. With diced potatoes, carrots, pickles, peas, eggs, meat (often chicken or ham), and mayo, it’s a creamy, tangy, celebratory dish.
United States: Loaded Baked Potato
Big, bold, and customisable: the loaded baked potato is an American diner classic. Once the potato is baked to fluffy perfection, it’s piled high with sour cream, cheddar, chives, bacon bits, and sometimes even chilli. It’s comfort food, pure and simple.
Germany: Kartoffelsalat
German potato salad comes in two main camps: vinegar-based (southern Germany) and mayo-based (northern Germany). The warm vinegar version, made with broth, mustard, and onions, is often served with sausages or schnitzel. Each region swears theirs is the best and honestly, they’re all pretty great.
Japan: Korokke
Inspired by French croquettes, korokke are Japanese deep-fried patties made from mashed potatoes and minced meat, coated in panko breadcrumbs. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and savoury inside, and commonly found in bento boxes, bakeries, and convenience stores.
No matter where you are in the world, there’s a good chance potatoes are part of the menu. From crispy street snacks to elegant appetisers, this humble tuber has proven it can go the distance—deliciously.
So, this National Potato Day, why not take a bite-sized trip around the world? Try recreating one of these dishes at home and celebrate the global appeal of the spud!