A russet potato is the most common type of potato grown in the United States; it is also sometimes referred to as an Idaho potato, burbank potato, or russet burbank potato. It was developed in the 1870s by Luther Burbank, a horticulturalist. Burbank sold the rights to his potatoes in 1875, and the potatoes increased in popularity as they spread across the country.

The russet potato is oval and has a brown, or russet-colored, net-like skin. The skin should have just a few shallow eyes. It should be firm, not soft or spongy, and should not have sprouts.

Russet potatoes are used in various recipes. They make great baked potatoes, and are also used to make french fries, potato pancakes, or mashed potatoes. The russet potato can also be roasted or boiled, or used in soups. They are generally not used to make potato chips, however.

These potatoes are high in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and carbohydrates (starch). They generally come with 3-4 grams of dietary fiber. The russet potato also has a fairly high sugar content. Storing your potatoes in the refrigerator can make the starch turn to sugar and therefore should be avoided as doing so can give the russet potato an unpleasant, sweet taste.

This brown potato is fairly low in Calories, having approximately 120-135 Calories per average sized potato. They are low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. The skin of the russet potato should also be eaten for the maximum health benefits.

It is best to store potatoes in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as a cellar. The temperature should be kept between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (about 7 to 10 degrees Celsius). You should not wash potatoes before storing them as the moisture can encourage them to sprout and soften. You should always wash them before cooking and eating them, however.

You should avoid eating potatoes that have a greenish tinge to them, as they can contain a natural toxin known as solanine that can be harmful in large amounts. Store potatoes in the dark to prevent them from turning green. If you do find greenish spots on your potatoes, peel or cut away the green parts before cooking them.

The russet potato is fairly inexpensive and makes a great side dish or even a meal by itself. It can be topped with whatever you choose, although adding butter, sour cream, or cheese will make it more fattening. Two healthy alternative potato toppings are salsa or a vegetable-based spread.