READER PICKS » Tasting Is Believing

Darling explains his idea of "Menu Architecture" as building menu ideas around the many easy prep side dishes Basic American Foods offers. No longer an afterthought, side dishes have invaded the center of the plate. Premium, shelf stable hash browns, mashed potatoes, and au gratin potatoes can contribute much more than in the past, thanks to advancements in flavor technology and speed of preparation., combined with a chef's own creativity.

Fast prep mashed potatoes with flavor enhancements, especially natural butter flavors, have elevated convenience products to the center stage. "We can customize a flavor profile in our potatoes for the customer," says Chef Darling. That customization encompasses flavor, texture, and ease of use for the operator.

Basic American Foods, known for their Potato Pearls® mashed potatoes, is a leader in developing fast prep banquet sides to a higher level. "Scratch Quality," as Darling calls it. Another bestseller for breakfast is Nature's Own Premium Hash Browns, made from select russets that are washed, peeled and shredded into hearty pieces. One case of these fast preparation hashbrowns makes as much product as three cases of frozen hashbrowns, delivering great taste and high profits while optimizing precious storage space.

These fresh flavor attributes of shelf-stable potato products combine fast-and-easy prep with palate-pleasing taste. "Tasting is believing," Darling notes.

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