When it comes to BBQs, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked potato to complement your grilled meats and vegetables. Cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ is a popular method, but it can be tricky to get it just right. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ, including how long to cook them, the benefits of this method, and some delicious recipe ideas.
Benefits of Cooking Potatoes in Foil on the BBQ
Cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ offers several benefits. Here are a few:
- Easy to prepare: Simply wash and poke some potatoes, add your desired seasonings, and wrap them in foil. You can’t get much easier than that!
- Minimal cleanup: The foil acts as a barrier between the potatoes and the BBQ, making cleanup a breeze.
- Retains moisture: The foil helps to retain moisture, resulting in a fluffy and tender potato.
- Flexibility: You can cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ at a variety of temperatures, making it easy to adjust to your specific BBQ setup.
How Long to Cook Potatoes in Foil on the BBQ
The cooking time for potatoes in foil on the BBQ will depend on several factors, including the size and type of potato, the temperature of the BBQ, and the level of doneness desired. Here are some general guidelines:
- Small to medium-sized potatoes: 30-40 minutes at medium-high heat (400°F/200°C)
- Medium to large-sized potatoes: 40-50 minutes at medium-high heat (400°F/200°C)
- Extra-large potatoes: 50-60 minutes at medium-high heat (400°F/200°C)
It’s also important to note that you can cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ at lower temperatures, such as 300°F (150°C), but this will increase the cooking time.
Factors That Affect Cooking Time
There are several factors that can affect the cooking time of potatoes in foil on the BBQ. Here are a few:
- Potato size and type: As mentioned earlier, the size and type of potato will affect the cooking time. Larger potatoes will take longer to cook, while smaller potatoes will cook more quickly.
- BBQ temperature: The temperature of the BBQ will also affect the cooking time. Higher temperatures will cook the potatoes more quickly, while lower temperatures will take longer.
- Level of doneness: The level of doneness desired will also affect the cooking time. If you prefer your potatoes more tender, you’ll need to cook them for a longer period of time.
How to Check for Doneness
So, how do you know when your potatoes are cooked to perfection? Here are a few ways to check for doneness:
- Check for softness: Use a fork or knife to check if the potato is soft and tender. If it slides in easily, it’s done.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the potato. It should be at least 190°F (88°C) for medium-sized potatoes.
- Check for visual cues: Check the potato for visual cues, such as a slight softening of the skin and a slight shrinkage in size.
Delicious Recipe Ideas
Now that you know how to cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ, here are some delicious recipe ideas to try:
- Garlic and Herb Potatoes: Mix minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, into the potatoes before cooking.
- Cheesy Potatoes: Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, onto the potatoes before cooking.
- Bacon and Chive Potatoes: Mix crumbled bacon and chopped chives into the potatoes before cooking.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to try:
- Use different seasonings: Try using different seasonings, such as paprika or chili powder, to add flavor to your potatoes.
- Add some acidity: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to the potatoes for a burst of flavor.
- Try different types of potatoes: Experiment with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, for a unique flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking: Overcooking can result in a dry and unappetizing potato. Make sure to check for doneness regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Undercooking: Undercooking can result in a raw and unappetizing potato. Make sure to cook the potatoes for the recommended amount of time to ensure they’re cooked through.
- Not poking the potatoes: Not poking the potatoes can result in a buildup of steam, which can cause the potatoes to explode. Make sure to poke the potatoes with a fork or knife before cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ is a simple and delicious way to prepare this popular side dish. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked potatoes every time. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and recipe ideas to add some variety to your BBQs. Happy grilling!
| Potato Size | Cooking Time (Medium-High Heat) |
|---|---|
| Small to medium-sized | 30-40 minutes |
| Medium to large-sized | 40-50 minutes |
| Extra-large | 50-60 minutes |
Note: The cooking times listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the specific BBQ setup and potato size.
What are the benefits of cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ?
Cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ is a great way to prepare this popular side dish. One of the main benefits is that it allows for even cooking and helps retain moisture. The foil acts as a mini oven, trapping heat and steam, which results in a fluffy interior and a tender exterior. Additionally, cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ is a low-maintenance and mess-free way to prepare them.
Another benefit of cooking potatoes in foil on the BBQ is that it’s a versatile method. You can add a variety of seasonings and herbs to the potatoes before wrapping them in foil, which allows you to experiment with different flavors. You can also cook other vegetables, such as carrots and green beans, in the same way, making it a convenient option for a BBQ or outdoor gathering.
What type of potatoes are best suited for cooking in foil on the BBQ?
The type of potatoes best suited for cooking in foil on the BBQ are high-starch potatoes, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes. These potatoes have a dry, fluffy interior that will yield a light and airy texture when cooked. They also have a thicker skin that will hold up well to the high heat of the BBQ. Avoid using waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they will retain too much moisture and may become mushy when cooked.
It’s also worth noting that you can use any size or shape of potato you like, from small new potatoes to large baking potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger potatoes will take longer to cook through.
How do I prepare potatoes for cooking in foil on the BBQ?
To prepare potatoes for cooking in foil on the BBQ, start by washing them thoroughly and drying them with a paper towel. Next, poke some holes in the potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape. You can then rub the potatoes with a little bit of oil and add any desired seasonings or herbs. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, and chopped fresh rosemary.
Once the potatoes are seasoned, wrap them individually in foil, making sure to seal the edges tightly. You can also add some extra flavorings to the foil, such as lemon slices or chopped onions, before sealing the potatoes inside.
How long does it take to cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ?
The cooking time for potatoes in foil on the BBQ will depend on the size and type of potatoes you’re using, as well as the heat of your BBQ. As a general rule, small to medium-sized potatoes will take around 30-40 minutes to cook through, while larger potatoes may take up to an hour.
It’s also worth noting that you can cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ at a variety of temperatures. If you’re cooking at a high heat (around 400°F), the potatoes will cook more quickly, but may be more prone to burning. If you’re cooking at a lower heat (around 300°F), the potatoes will cook more slowly, but may be more tender and evenly cooked.
Can I cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ at a low heat for a longer period of time?
Yes, you can cook potatoes in foil on the BBQ at a low heat for a longer period of time. This is a great option if you’re cooking for a crowd or want to prepare the potatoes ahead of time. Simply wrap the potatoes in foil and place them on the BBQ at a low heat (around 250-300°F). Cook the potatoes for 1-2 hours, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking potatoes at a low heat for a longer period of time can result in a more tender and evenly cooked potato. It’s also a great way to cook potatoes if you’re using a charcoal BBQ, as it allows you to cook the potatoes while the coals are dying down.
How do I know when potatoes cooked in foil on the BBQ are done?
There are a few ways to check if potatoes cooked in foil on the BBQ are done. One way is to check for tenderness by piercing the potato with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, the potato is cooked through. You can also check for doneness by squeezing the potato gently. If it yields to pressure, it’s cooked.
Another way to check if potatoes are done is to unwrap the foil and check the internal temperature. Cooked potatoes should have an internal temperature of at least 190°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the potato.
Can I cook potatoes in foil on a gas BBQ or do I need a charcoal BBQ?
You can cook potatoes in foil on either a gas BBQ or a charcoal BBQ. The type of BBQ you use won’t affect the cooking time or method, as the potatoes are wrapped in foil and cooked indirectly. However, if you’re using a gas BBQ, you may need to adjust the heat to ensure that the potatoes cook evenly.
If you’re using a charcoal BBQ, you can take advantage of the smoky flavor that the charcoal imparts to the potatoes. Simply place the potatoes on the BBQ while the coals are still hot, and cook until they’re tender.