There are proposals that unexpectedly transform the market. It's not a top-level product or a technological innovation, but something much more everyday. Aldi has done it again, this time with a basic food that's winning over consumers for its convenience.
The German chain has sparked a craze in the United States thanks to its whole canned potatoes from the Happy Harvest brand, which cost only $1.05. Although many looked at them with suspicion at first, they're now selling out. They're practical, tasty, and make it easy to prepare complete meals without any hassle in the kitchen.
A complete pantry in a single can
Unlike other canned vegetables, these Aldi potatoes are already cooked and peeled. That makes them a perfect option for anyone who doesn't have time or doesn't want to use the oven or the pot. You just have to open the can, drain them, and decide how to prepare them.
One of the favorite ways is to roast them in the oven with butter and herbs like thyme or rosemary. Since they're already cooked, they only need a few minutes at a high temperature to become crispy on the outside. You can also brown them in a skillet with olive oil, adding fresh spinach and a touch of parmesan for a quick and tasty meal.
In summer, when you don't feel like turning on the oven, you can sauté them with garlic, paprika, and vinegar to make faux patatas bravas. Another option is to mash them and mix them with egg and cheese in individual molds, creating gluten-free bites ideal for breakfast or dinner.
They also work for more elaborate dishes. You can add them to a vegetable soup before blending it, which adds texture without the need for fresh potatoes. They work in curries prepared with jarred sauces and pair well with legumes like chickpeas or peas.
For those who have an air fryer, the result is spectacular. With a little oil, they turn golden and get a crispy touch. Another idea is to use them as a base for a meat pie, simply mashing them with milk and butter, as recommended in Simply Recipes.
Aldi's silent revolution
While Costco continues to bet on large formats, Aldi has managed to capture what many consumers are looking for today: quick, cheap, and effective solutions. These potatoes not only save time, they also prevent waste and simplify weekly planning.
Whether for an improvised dish or as the main ingredient in a more thought-out recipe, the possibilities are many. With just one can, you can prepare complete breakfasts, lunches, or dinners. All for just over a dollar.
What started as a curiosity on the shelves has become one of Aldi's star products in the United States. Without any advertising, it's managed to position itself thanks to its functionality. A silent but forceful victory over the competition.