Potato Expo: A quick Q&A with Chef Jason Morse

There’s a lot of talk about the cook-off between Simon Majumdar and Duff Goldman at this year’s Potato Expo, and supporting these team leads are culinary forces of nature. Teamed up with Goldman is Jason Morse, Ace Hardware’s national spokesperson and BBQ expert, who has spent his lifetime behind grills and barbecues. He has been featured on Food Network and other media, and works closely with agricultural groups and nonprofits. And he’s thrilled to “mash things up” at This Spud’s for You.

What is one of your earliest grilling memories (particularly if it involved potatoes)?

Growing up, a neighbor who was a chef made the most amazing grilled au gratin potatoes. That’s a recipe I keep near and dear to my heart.

Did you ever think you’d be at Potato Expo elevating the celebrity status of the potato?

You know, it’s not a bad place to be, that’s for sure. I have always aspired to mash things up, and I finally have my moment!

What drew you to Potato Expo and made you want to participate? What is something that has stood out to you about it?

I am huge advocate for America’s favorite vegetable; it always has a place on my plate. After working with Colorado Potatoes at an Expo years ago, I felt this was a great place to get involved on a national level. The amount of educational opportunities at the Expo makes it a no brainer. Plus, competing with Chefs RJ, Simon and Duff … this is going to be a lot of fun.

What are some of your go-to tips (or ingredients) for cooking potatoes on a grill?

Don’t over-season your potatoes. Just the right amount of oil, seasoning and toppings will allow the potato flavor to shine trough. One tip is to try cooking potato planks from a raw state: The grill really adds a depth of flavor to the potato.

What unique styles are you and Duff Goldman bringing to the cook-off that could secure your team the win?

We plan to have fun, win, but have fun doing it. Hey, even if we don’t win, we’re going to have fun. I can’t let you in on our trade secrets, but just know —  we’re holding nothing back for this spudtastic competition!