The third annual Potato Week will take place from 7-13 October, giving caterers the opportunity to maximise sales of potato dishes.
Run by the Potato Council, the Week will be spearheaded by a major consumer campaign planned to highlight popular all-round varieties, such as Maris Piper. And with these super-carbs firmly in the spotlight, there will be plenty of opportunities for chefs and caterers to take advantage of growing interest by enhancing their menus.
“A catering menu just isn’t complete without a selection of quality potato dishes,” said Kate Cox, marketing manager for Potato Council. “From golden chips and creamy mash, to satisfying jackets; potatoes not only deliver versatility to a pub or restaurant menu but are great value and a much loved accompaniment to a meal.
Add information to menus
“We’re encouraging chefs to embrace Potato Week and include more dishes, as well as named varieties, methods and potato provenance, to menus and experience the positive impact it can have on sales as a result.”
A ‘mix and match’ side menu is just one of the great ways to encourage customers to choose potatoes during the Week. These can include options to ‘trade-up’ to gourmet style dishes, with added herbs and spices, to deliver improved margins.
Alternative potato-based dishes
Alongside traditional accompaniments, chefs can also benefit from including a range of alternative potato-based dishes on the menu, thanks to the involvement of author, food stylist and TV regular, Jo Pratt.
Jo has developed a range of inspiring dishes, including ‘Thai Potato and Chicken Curry’, a creamy yet hearty ‘Potato Soup’ and even a ‘Sticky Orange Potato Cake’ – a delicious dessert alternative when combined with a serving of ice cream. Combining low-cost and regular kitchen ingredients, these potato dishes will be an appealing and profitable addition to any menu.
For more information on Potato Week, recipe ideas, as well as buying, handling and storing potatoes, visit www.potato.org.uk and www. lovepotatoes.co.uk
Potato Council, supporting the potato industry, is funded by potato growers, purchasers and processors. Potato Council is a division of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (www.ahdb.org.uk).