Boiled potatoes are always appreciated for their simplicity and versatility, certainly the lightest and healthiest recipe to enjoy this delicious tuber. Quick to prepare, these tasty potatoes adapt to different cooking methods. Whether boiled with or without skin, whole or in pieces, steamed, in a pressure cooker or microwave, boiled potatoes offer a wide range of options to satisfy every need. The precise cooking time varies depending on the technique chosen, while 1 kg of boiled potatoes equals on average 5 servings.
POTATO SEASON: all year round.
POTATO RECIPES
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Cheap
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 5
- Cooking methods: Pressure Cooker, Stove
- Cuisine: Wellness
- Seasonality: All Seasons
- Energy 153.69 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 34.91 (g) of which sugars 1.64 (g)
- Proteins 4.09 (g)
- Fat 0.18 (g) of which saturated 0.05 (g)of which unsaturated 0.09 (g)
- Fibers 4.19 (g)
- Sodium 13.97 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 200 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Boiled Potatoes
- 2.2 lbs potatoes
- as needed water (about 1 cup for steaming)
Tools
- Pressure Cooker Lagostina 7 liters
- Steaming Basket
Flavorful Boiled Potatoes
PREPARE THE POTATOES
Choose quality potatoes of the same size to ensure even cooking. Wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any soil residue.
You can cook them whole with or without skin, if you prefer, you can also cut them in half or quarters to speed up the cooking time.
I always recommend steaming whole potatoes with skin on, to preserve their nutrients and all the flavor.
You can decide whether to peel the potatoes or cook them with the skin on. The skin adds flavor, texture, and nutrition. If the potatoes are large, you can cut them into smaller pieces so they cook faster and more evenly.
(quick and efficient cooking)
Use the steam basket inside the pressure cooker to prevent the potatoes from coming into direct contact with the water. Pour the water into the pressure cooker up to the steam basket (about 1 cup of liquid), then place the potatoes inside. Seal the pressure cooker tightly with its lid and make sure the valve is in the closed position.
Bring the pressure cooker to pressure. At the classic whistle, reduce the flame to maintain constant pressure. The cooking time for medium-sized potatoes is 10-15 minutes. Once the cooking time is over, turn off the heat and let the pressure cooker depressurize on its own to avoid being overwhelmed by steam, then check the potatoes’ doneness by inserting a fork. If the fork goes in easily, the potatoes are ready. If not, continue cooking.
In a pot large enough to hold them comfortably, place the potatoes in salted boiling (or cold, see below) water and cook the potatoes.
Let the potatoes simmer until they become tender when pricked with a fork. When the potatoes are cooked, drain them using a colander.
If you want to use them for salads or other cold dishes, let them cool before using.
Should you boil potatoes in hot or cold water?
Using hot water can speed up cooking time, while cold water can be more gradual and even.
Hot Water: this is the most common method of boiling potatoes. Start by bringing the water to a boil and add salt. Add the cut or whole potatoes to the boiling water. Cook until the potatoes are tender. Cooking time varies depending on the size and variety of the potatoes.
Cold Water: place the potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. Add salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are soft. This method may take longer than with hot water, but some people believe the potatoes cook more evenly.
STORING Boiled Potatoes
Boiled potatoes can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh and prevent browning, store them whole with their skin in an airtight container. Peel them just before consuming.
If you wish to store them in the freezer, I recommend blanching them for a few minutes before placing them in freezer bags (well-sealed), they will keep for several months.
Curiosities
PROPERTIES – What are the benefits of boiled potatoes?
Boiled potatoes are a rich source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy to the body. The presence of fiber, vitamins such as C and B6, along with minerals like potassium and manganese, makes them beneficial for digestive, immune, and cardiovascular health. Low in calories and free of saturated fats, boiled potatoes are a light and nutritious option, also contributing to weight management when consumed in moderation and as a replacement for other types of carbohydrates (like bread or polenta) which are more caloric.
How often can you eat boiled potatoes per week?
Boiled potatoes are a nutritious food that can be included in a balanced diet. Nutritionists recommend consuming them boiled and dressed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil up to 2 times a week, also to vary the diet.
When is it not recommended to eat potatoes?
Avoid or limit potato consumption if on a low-carb diet. Potatoes are high in starches, which are complex carbohydrates. These starches can affect blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should moderate their consumption due to the effect on blood sugar levels.
When should potatoes not be eaten?
If potatoes develop sprouts, it is best to avoid consuming them. Sprouts indicate that the potato is producing solanine, a toxic substance that can be present in larger quantities in the sprouts and green peel. Ingesting solanine can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
Therefore, when potatoes start to sprout, remove them immediately and consume shortly after. If many parts are green, it’s advisable to discard and not consume them. Generally, to ensure food safety, it’s important to store them in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Do not store potatoes in the refrigerator, temperatures below 41°F make the taste of potatoes sweet.
