?From its obscure Pre-Columbian beginnings in the Andes Mountains of South America to its global stardom today, the story of the potato is one of rags to riches. Potato tells the captivating tale of an allegedly lowly vegetable that has changed - and continues to change - the world. The potato was first domesticated by prehistoric people in the Andes Mountains of South America. Since then it has been adopted by cultures the world over, and has become especially popular in China and India, where it has become a dietary staple - these two countries are now the world's largest consumers and producers of potatoes. Despite its popularity, the potato has also gone through some dark times, falling victim to negative publicity regarding nutrition, especially when taking the form of the delectable, yet highly calorific, French fry. Potato is a captivating read that provides a concise, thoroughly researched account of the history, economy, politics and gastronomy of this well-loved starch. The book also contains recipes for potatoes puffed, scalloped, mashed, stir-fried, wedged and shredded, as well as potato cakes, tattie scones and Chinese potato chips. This succinct and exciting book will appeal to anyone who loves potatoes, or the history of food.