I was inspired to write an ode to potatoes honestly because I am shaped like one. Being potato-shaped, however, is nothing to be ashamed of since when it comes to cooking, potatoes are one of the most versatile vegetables out there.

What can you not do with these golden globes of goodness? Cut 'em up thin and long, fry in oil, and you'll have one of the most consumed fast food products ever. Mash them and add butter, you'll have the best side to any steak dish. Bake them, roast them, boil them – do whatever you want, really, and you'll most probably end up with something delicious. Even potato crisps are popular worldwide.

Potatoes are a must-have for Bangladeshi households. Bangladeshi-style aloo bhorta always trumps mashed potatoes. One of our most loved breakfasts can't be complete without aloo bhaji. Meat curries never taste their best without potatoes in them.

The highlight of a Bengali wedding is not the décor nor is it the beautiful bride. I think all wedding guests, and maybe even the newly-wed couple, will agree that the star of the show is most definitely the kacchi, and the ever important aloo in it.

The health benefits of potatoes are something everyone usually overlooks. Even though potatoes are high in carbohydrates, it has little to no fat, so eating them in moderation will not make you gain weight. Furthermore, potatoes are cholesterol-free, low in sodium, and high in fibre and potassium.

An underrated quality of potatoes is that its juice can be used in skincare. Since potatoes are high in Vitamin-C, the juice is great for hydrating and brightening skin. It also helps to level uneven skin tone and clear blemishes. It's even good for your hair.

Keeping aside the factual benefits of potatoes, let's take a moment to appreciate what potatoes really stand for. A potato is perhaps not the most pleasing thing to look at, but there's something to learn from this. On the outside, a potato is often muddy or dusty, has an off-putting colour, a rough texture, and sometimes not a perfect sphere. But on the inside lies the yellow starchy goodness that almost nobody can resist. A potato could be THE example to be used while teaching the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover". 

I am an unnecessarily picky eater but when it comes to potatoes, I will eat any dish. Now excuse me while I go and order some curly fries.

Mayabee Arannya is a confused soul still searching for a purpose. Give her advice on life at facebook.com/mayabee.arannya