Frame: Food Fighters

When I was a kid, a line of action figures called Food Fighters was a much less successful precursor to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle franchise. Food Fighters came in two teams: the noble Kitchen Commandos headed by Burger-dier General, and the nasty Refrigerator Rejects, led by Mean Weiner. Back in those days, Lieutenant Leg (a drumstick) would valiantly fight against Short Stack (a stack of pancakes), a classic battle against good and evil. But these days it’s relatively mundane foods like ginger, turmeric, pumpkin, and apple cider vinegar that fight against physical ailments, and even cancer. (Note: “Private Pumpkin” was never an actual Food Fighter.)

In particular, there is mounting evidence that Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that help to prevent pre-cancerous growths from maturing. But, turmeric has to be “stabilized” in oil before being absorbed, so this potato recipe – adapted from How To Eat Supper – is perfect. These potatoes are full of flavor and require very little work. Chop up the leftovers and sauté with some green peppers for awesome home fries.

Turmeric Potatoes
2 lbs yukon gold potatoes, sliced thin (skins on)
good quality olive oil
1 yellow onion, sliced
2 tbsp chicken broth
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
salt and pepper

Generously spread olive oil over the bottom of a 4 quart saucepan with a lid. Set pan over medium heat. Layer in the onion, turmeric, salt and pepper, then top with potatoes and more salt and pepper. Let mixture cook without stirring until onion starts to soften and brown. Don’t stir, but poke underneath to check to make sure onions aren’t burning. Add broth and reduce heat to medium-low, cover pan. Don’t stir, but shake pan occasionally. Cook for 20-25 minutes, adding more liquid if needed. Potatoes are done when they are tender. Pull pan off heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. A sprinkle of lemon or lime juice is a nice finish, but not necessary. Make sure to get the onion glaze off the bottom of the pan to top the potatoes before serving. Voila.