Potatoes are a berry that came to Russia from South America. Initially, the Spaniards went for gold, but what they brought was a little different from what everyone expected. This is how potatoes came to Europe in the 16th century. There it was grown as an ornamental plant. In the 18th century, under Peter I, potatoes were brought to Russia, where they began to be cultivated as an agricultural crop. Potatoes are a universal dish. It is boiled, fried, baked, added to dishes as a filling, and pancakes are made from it.