Buttered potatoes are a staple side dish in many cuisines around the world. They’re a simple yet delicious way to prepare potatoes, and they can be served with a variety of main courses. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to cook buttered potatoes to perfection.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
When it comes to cooking buttered potatoes, the type of potato you use can make a big difference. You want to choose potatoes that are high in starch, as they will yield a lighter and fluffier texture. Some good options include:
- Russet potatoes: These are the most commonly available potatoes in most supermarkets, and they’re a great choice for buttered potatoes.
- Idaho potatoes: These potatoes have a slightly sweeter flavor than Russet potatoes, and they’re also high in starch.
Preparing the Potatoes
Before you can cook your buttered potatoes, you need to prepare them. Here’s how:
Washing and Peeling
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. You can also leave the skin on if you prefer, but it’s generally easier to remove it for buttered potatoes.
Chopping
Once the potatoes are peeled, chop them into your desired shape. You can chop them into small cubes, slices, or even wedges. The shape you choose will affect the cooking time, so keep that in mind.
Cooking the Potatoes
Now it’s time to cook the potatoes. Here’s how:
Boiling
Boiling is a great way to cook buttered potatoes, as it helps to retain their texture and flavor. To boil the potatoes, place them in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Draining and Drying
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Add a little bit of butter to the potatoes and toss them to coat. Then, use a paper towel to dry the potatoes and remove any excess moisture.
Adding Butter and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add the butter and seasonings to the potatoes. You can use as much or as little butter as you like, depending on your personal preference. Some other seasonings you might consider adding include:
- Salt and pepper: These are the most basic seasonings, but they’re also the most essential.
- Garlic powder: This adds a savory flavor to the potatoes.
- Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor to the potatoes.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking buttered potatoes:
Using Different Types of Butter
You don’t have to use regular butter to make buttered potatoes. Some other options include:
- Garlic butter: This is made by mixing minced garlic with softened butter.
- Herb butter: This is made by mixing chopped herbs with softened butter.
Adding Other Ingredients
You can also add other ingredients to the potatoes to give them more flavor. Some options include:
- Grated cheese: This adds a rich and creamy flavor to the potatoes.
- Chopped herbs: These add a fresh and savory flavor to the potatoes.
Conclusion
Cooking buttered potatoes is a simple yet delicious way to prepare potatoes. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving buttered potatoes as a side dish or using them as a base for other recipes, they’re a great addition to any meal.
What type of potatoes are best for buttered potatoes?
For the perfect buttered potatoes, you’ll want to choose a high-starch potato variety. These types of potatoes have a dry, fluffy interior that will soak up the butter and seasonings nicely. Some popular high-starch potato varieties include Russet and Idaho potatoes. Avoid using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they will retain too much moisture and not yield the same fluffy results.
When selecting potatoes, look for ones that are firm and have no visible bruises or blemishes. You’ll also want to choose potatoes that are roughly the same size so that they cook evenly. If you’re using larger potatoes, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I boil potatoes for buttered potatoes?
To boil potatoes for buttered potatoes, start by filling a large pot with enough cold water to cover the potatoes. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the potatoes to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
It’s essential to not overcook the potatoes, as this can make them too soft and unappetizing. Check the potatoes frequently during the cooking time to avoid overcooking. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Add a pat of butter to the potatoes and toss them gently to coat.
Can I use a microwave to cook buttered potatoes?
While it’s possible to cook potatoes in the microwave, it’s not the recommended method for buttered potatoes. Microwaving can result in uneven cooking and a less fluffy texture. However, if you’re short on time, you can cook the potatoes in the microwave. Simply wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then cook them on high for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re tender.
Keep in mind that microwaving can result in a less flavorful dish, as the potatoes won’t have a chance to absorb the butter and seasonings as well as they would with boiling. If you do choose to microwave the potatoes, be sure to add the butter and seasonings immediately after cooking to help bring out the flavors.
How much butter should I use for buttered potatoes?
The amount of butter to use for buttered potatoes is largely a matter of personal preference. As a general rule, start with a small amount of butter – about 2-3 tablespoons per 2-3 potatoes – and adjust to taste. You can always add more butter, but it’s harder to remove excess butter from the potatoes.
When adding the butter to the potatoes, be sure to use high-quality, salted butter for the best flavor. You can also add other seasonings, such as chopped herbs or grated cheese, to the butter for extra flavor.
Can I add other seasonings to buttered potatoes?
One of the best things about buttered potatoes is that you can customize them with your favorite seasonings. Some popular additions include chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, grated cheese like Parmesan or cheddar, and spices like paprika or garlic powder. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of chopped scallions for extra brightness.
When adding seasonings, be sure to taste the potatoes as you go and adjust the seasonings accordingly. You can also experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favorite flavor.
How do I store leftover buttered potatoes?
If you have leftover buttered potatoes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store the potatoes, let them cool to room temperature, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped potatoes in a covered container or zip-top bag and refrigerate.
When you’re ready to reheat the potatoes, simply unwrap them and place them in a covered dish. Add a splash of milk or cream to the potatoes, then cover the dish with plastic wrap or a damp paper towel. Microwave the potatoes on high for 30-60 seconds, or until they’re heated through.
Can I make buttered potatoes ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve buttered potatoes immediately after cooking, you can make them ahead of time with a few adjustments. To make buttered potatoes ahead of time, cook the potatoes as directed, then let them cool to room temperature. Wrap the cooled potatoes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve.
When you’re ready to serve the potatoes, simply unwrap them and add the butter and seasonings. You can also reheat the potatoes in the microwave or oven before adding the butter and seasonings. Keep in mind that making buttered potatoes ahead of time may result in a slightly less fluffy texture, but they’ll still be delicious.