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How to Boil Potatoes

Simple method for boiling potatoes until tender for use in recipes or to serve hot.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 whole potatoes
  • 1 quart water or enough water to cover the potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon salt for the boiling water
  • salt and pepper to taste, for serving

Instructions

  • If desired, peel the potatoes and slice them to the size you need; whole potatoes may be boiled with the skins on.
  • Place the potatoes in a medium saucepan and add enough water to cover them (about 1 quart for the amount here).
  • Stir in 1 tablespoon salt, then heat the pan over high heat until the water is simmering.
  • Simmer sliced potatoes for about 5–7 minutes, or whole potatoes for about 10 minutes, until a fork pierces them easily to your desired tenderness.
  • When cooked, pour the contents into a colander to drain off the water.
  • Return potatoes to a bowl or pan and season with salt and pepper to taste, or use them in your recipe as directed.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Colander
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Notes

  • Boil longer for more tender potatoes if serving immediately.
  • Par-cook (less time) if the potatoes will be cooked further in another recipe.
  • Cooked potatoes may change color slightly; this is normal.
  • Reserve the cooking water to thin or flavor sauces.
  • To make a simple sauce: melt 2 Tbsp butter with 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 cup milk and 1/4 cup Parmesan until combined, then pour over hot potatoes.