Potatoes –
HOT SPOTS
FOR THE POT!
Potatoes are a household staple that most folk love for their versatility and ease of cooking. They remain a value for money vegetable and are included in meals among a wide range of ethnicities.
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• Potatoes are the number one vegetable in New Zealand with 97% of us eating them. • 53% of New Zealanders consume fresh potatoes four times per week and 21% eat them daily. • The NZ potato industry value
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is more than $1 billion dollars per annum. NZ processed potatoes account for 67% of NZ potato industry value. Currently 85% of all fries eaten in NZ are NZ fries. 15% of fries consumed in NZ are imported. 55% of our locally grown potatoes produce fries. 12% of locally grown potatoes produce crisps. Potatoes tend to be categorised as waxy, general purpose or floury with each category being better suited to specific types of cooking.
RIVER ESTATE Established on the Turanga River in Whitford, River Estate has been producing top-quality olive oil and table olives since 1999. Our 1500 olive trees follow a long tradition of dairy farming by the Wade family. Everything is grown, processed and hand-packaged on site by Barry and Sheryl. Visitors, including groups, enjoy visiting by appointment to sample award-winning products. Talk to Barry at Clevedon Village Farmers Market every Sunday. We regularly courier orders all over New Zealand. 150 Wades Road, Whitford info@riverestate.co.nz www.riverestate.co.nz Barry Wade 021 139 0103
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Various cultures bring their own individual touch to this often fundamental element of an evening meal. So, here are a few facts Kiwis might like to know about potatoes followed by a recipe which are just right when catering for a crowd or for family gatherings.
Potato Bites INGREDIENTS: • 250g small Jersey Benne potatoes (or similar), washed & halved • 5 tbsp basil pesto • 5 tbsp light sour cream
• 100g hot smoked salmon • Spring onions, slice finely for garnish • 1 tsp olive oil
Heat oven to 180°C, then place potato halves cut side up on a baking tray and cook until tender. Arrange the potatoes on a serving dish. Top with 1/4 teaspoon pesto or 1/4 teaspoon sour cream and a small piece of salmon. Garnish with spring onions.
28 | eastlife | september/october 2021
CCT LAVENDER FARM CAFÉ A family wonderland, CCT Lavender Farm Café is located in the heart of an organic lavender farm where there’s plenty for kiddies and parents alike. The 35-hectare, organic lavender field is open free for visitors to view at present while the indoor/outdoor children’s playground will keep little ones happy. Even on these winter days there are flowers in and around the café where the menu includes a hearty all-day breakfast, house-made dessert and a cup of coffee – relax, eat and enjoy the country outlook. Open 6 days, Tues-Sun 8.30am-4.00pm 242 Urquhart Road, Karaka www.cctlavender.com CCT Lavender (for booking)
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Try this simple, but delicious recipe courtesy of Five + A Day. Preparation: 15 minutes | Cooking: 20-30 minutes
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