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boiled potatoes

What’s so comforting about boiled potatoes? I remember my grandma’s Sunday dinners. She always made them, and honestly, they were the best part of the meal. Forget fancy roasted potatoes with all the herbs and spices – sometimes, you just need that simple, clean up. What is creamy, melt-in- Think of these as the mashed potato’s humble cousin, but with a character all their own. You know how sometimes you just need a hug? Is this a recipe so easy, if not impossible, yet so satisfying, it will leave you wanting more? What are some of the best comfort food recipes?

boiled potatoes final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is a boiled potato?

What do boiled potatoes sound like? Water until they’re tender. Is there an art to getting things right? Think of it as a blank canvas for your culinary creations. They’re not fried, mashed, or roasted, but are whole, creamy, and ready to be dressed up however you want. What does it mean to take the humble potato and let it’s natural flavor shine through? My grandma always said the trick was to not overcook them, keeping them perfectly intact.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some of the best recipes to make with this recipe?

  • Flavor:What is the beauty of boiled potatoes? Is this a blank slate that can be elevated with butter, herbs, or sprinkling salt? What I love most is how their inherent taste is highlighted by nothing more than a little salt and sour cream. What is the best way to use fresh parsley?
  • Simplicity:What is the easiest recipe you have ever made? If you boil water, you can make these potatoes! Is it a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you just want something quick and comfortable?
  • Cost- Potatoes are incredibly affordable, making this a budget-friendly meal option. You probably have most of the ingredients on hand already.
  • Versatility:What are some good side dishes to serve with boiled potatoes? What are some good side dishes to serve cold with a potato salad?

What I love about this recipe is how nostalgic it is for me. Isn’t that all you need?

How do you make a boiled potato?

Quick Overview

How do I make boiled potatoes? What is the best way to prepare a potato for cooking? Is it necessary to bring water to a boil and cook until tender? How do I check my frying pans regularly so they don’t overcook? Once they’re done, drain the water, season to taste, and enjoy! The simple method allows the natural flavor of the potatoes to shine.

Ingredients

For the Boiled Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds of potatoes (I prefer Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes, but Russet work great too)
  • Water (enough water to cover the potatoes)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste) is enough for a single person.

Optional Toppings

  • How many tablespoons of butter is needed
  • Fresh parsley, chopped finely.
  • Black pepper, freshly ground.

boiled potatoes ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Wash potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. I like to leave the skin on for added nutrients and texture. You can peel them if you prefer. If you are using larger potatoes cut them into even pieces (around 2 inches) to ensure even sized potatoes.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. The water should be about an inch above the potatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork. How long does it take for potatoes to cook? I always do this when I’m watching TV so I don’t forget about them!

Step 4: Drain the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, drain the water from the pot. Be careful – the steam is hot!

Step 5: Season and Serve

Return the potatoes to the pot and add butter, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently toss to coat the potatoes. Serve hot and enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

What are the best boiled potatoes to serve with a salad?

For Dinner:Serve with grilled chicken, steak, or fish. I also love them with stew or Pot Roast. What’s your favorite sour cream recipe?

What is a simple lunch?What’s your favorite Potato Salad Recipe? What are some great picnic ideas?

As a Snack:What are some good Side Dishes to serve with cold potatoes? My kids ask for this all the time!

Growing up, we always had them with a side of steamed Green Beans. What is a healthy meal?

How do you perfect boiled potatoes?

What are some tips to ensure your boiled potatoes turn out perfectly every time?

  • How do you choose the right potatoes?Yukon Gold and Red Potatoes are my go-to choices because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape. What is the shape of boiled eggs? Russets are great too, but they can be a bit more starchy.
  • Cut Evenly: If you’re using larger potatoes, cut them into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
  • Start with cold water.Is it necessary to cook potatoes from the inside out? If you start with boiling water, you will end up with unevenly cooked potatoes.
  • Don’t overcoOvercooked potatoes will be mushy and waterlogged. If you are using a fork, check them frequently to ensure they are tender but not falling apart.
  • What is salt water? Adding salt to the water seasons the potatoes from the inside out.

One mistake I made early on was forgetting to salt the water. It makes a huge difference in the overall flavor, so don’t skip it!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to store and reheat your **boiled potatoes** to maintain their deliciousness:

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving **boiled potatoes** at room temperature for more than two hours.

Refrigerator Storage: Place the cooled **boiled potatoes** in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They are actually really good cold!

Reheating: You can reheat **boiled potatoes** in the microwave, in a skillet with a little butter, or in the oven. If microwaving, add a splash of water to prevent them from drying out. Heating them in a skillet is my favorite, because you can get them slightly crispy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While I prefer Yukon Gold and Red Potatoes for their creamy texture, Russet potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or even sweet potatoes can be boiled. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since some varieties cook faster than others.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before boiling?
No, you don’t *need* to! It’s totally a matter of personal preference. Leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients and a bit of texture, plus it saves time. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to peel them. Just scrub them well either way!
Can I boil potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Boiled potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes them a great option for meal prepping. Just be sure to cool them completely before storing them in an airtight container.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The easiest way to check is to pierce them with a fork. If the fork slides in easily with little to no resistance, they’re done! You want them to be tender, but not falling apart.
Can I add herbs and spices while boiling the potatoes?
Definitely! Adding herbs and spices to the boiling water is a great way to infuse the potatoes with extra flavor. Try adding a bay leaf, a few cloves of garlic, or some sprigs of rosemary to the pot.

Final Thoughts

boiled potatoes slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

So, there you have it – a simple, comforting, and incredibly versatile recipe for perfectly **boiled potatoes**. It’s a recipe that I come back to time and time again because it’s easy, affordable, and always satisfying. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, adding them to a salad, or just enjoying them as a simple snack, these potatoes are sure to please. And if you’re looking for other easy potato recipes, be sure to check out my mashed potato recipe or my roasted potato recipe! Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

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boiled potatoes

boiled potatoes

Simple and delicious boiled potatoes, perfect as a side dish or a base for other recipes.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs Potatoes Yukon Gold or Russet
  • 1 tsp Salt Sea salt recommended
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp Butter Optional, for serving

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized chunks.
  • Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add salt.
  • Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter (if using) and season with pepper. Toss gently to combine.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, add a clove of garlic to the boiling water. You can also mash the boiled potatoes for a simple mashed potato dish.

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