How to boil potatoes and make mashed potatoes

Potatoes are a highly adaptable and beloved food enjoyed all over the world, and boiling them is one of the simplest and most popular methods of preparation. In addition to boiling, they can be baked, roasted, grilled, or fried, making them a versatile staple in many cuisines. Whether served as a side dish or as the main ingredient in a meal, potatoes offer a delicious and nutritious option for any occasion. Potatoes also are an excellent source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and other nutrients.

In this article, we will explore the different methods for boiling and cooking potatoes, including how to make creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes. Also will share some useful tips and tricks for storing and reheating potatoes, so you can enjoy them to their fullest potential. Get ready to elevate your potato-cooking skills and impress your taste buds!

How to boil potatoes on the stove

1. Peel the potatoes and wash them under running water.
2. Cut them into similar-sized pieces (halved for small potatoes, 4 pieces for medium, and 6 pieces for large).
3. Place the potatoes in a pot with cold water and bring to a boil over high heat (make sure the water covers all the potatoes).
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the potatoes simmer for 15 minutes.
5. After 15 minutes, remove the lid and let the potatoes simmer for 5 more minutes.
6. To test if they’re done, poke a fork or knife into the potato. When the fork or knife goes easily into the potato, it’s ready.
7. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle with dry dill and/or salt.

How to bake potatoes in the oven

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Wash the potatoes well (you do not need to peel them as they cook more delicious with the skin).
3. Place small potatoes directly onto the cooking tray; for larger potatoes, cut them in half and add everything to the tray.
4. Optional: drizzle potatoes with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and add fresh rosemary for extra flavor.
5. Cook in the oven for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Test for doneness by poking a fork or knife into the potato – if it goes in easily, the potatoes are ready.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool before serving.

How to cook potatoes on the grill

Cooking potatoes on the grill is a great way to enjoy them without having to turn on the oven. The key is to cook them long enough to get crispy edges and soft insides.

Option 1 – on the grill

1. Wash potatoes thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Place them directly over the coals or on a hot grill rack. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes per side.
3. To test for doneness, insert a knife into the middle of each potato. If the knife slides easily in and out, the potatoes are done.
4. Transfer the cooked potatoes to a serving platter, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Option 2 – grilling potatoes in the foil

1. Choose medium or large size potatoes.
2. Wash them thoroughly under cold running water.
3. Cover each potato in aluminum foil and add to the still-hot grill coals, making sure the coals cover the potatoes from all sides.
4. Medium sized potatoes will take about 20-30 minutes to cook and larger ones might take a bit more.
5. To test if they’re done, poke a fork or knife into the potato. When the fork or knife goes easily into the potato, it’s ready.
6. Cut the potato in half, season with salt & pepper, add a little bit of butter and enjoy!

How to make mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a staple at every Thanksgiving dinner table. They’re delicious, filling, and nutritious. But they can also be tricky to master. If you want to get the perfect consistency, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered.

Ingredients

Ratio: for about 400g of potatoes you will need:
1 tablespoon of butter
200ml of milk
0.5 teaspoon of salt
0.5 teaspoon of dry dill (optional)

Instructions

1. Peel the potatoes’ skin and wash thoroughly under the running water.
2. Cut them into similar sizes, but not into small cubes.
3. Place potatoes in a large pot, add water (must cover all the potatoes) and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. While potatoes are boiling, warm up the milk. For ~400g of potatoes you need 200ml of milk.
5. When the water boils, lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the potatoes simmer for 15 minutes.
6. After 15 minutes, remove the lid and let the potatoes cook without it for a further 5 minutes until they are soft (to test, poke them with a fork; they ought to crumble).
7. Drain well and put potatoes back in the pot over the turned off heat. Let them sit for 1 more minute, so that the excess water would drain.
8. Add butter, let it melt between potatoes, and then mash the cooked potatoes with a potato masher. Add some salt and dry dill (optional) and mix it well. Note: you must mash the potatoes well before adding milk as later it will be difficult to get rid of the lumps.
9. Once you get a nice silky smooth consistency taste if it is salty enough for you. If it tastes salty enough, gradually pour milk in 3 parts on the potatoes and mix well in between.
10. Taste again if it is good for you and serve!

Note: Don’t use a hand-held mixer, blender, or food processor a s they will activate the potatoes’ starches and turn the dish gluey.

Tips for cooking potatoes