Cooking Small Potatoes to Perfection: A Comprehensive Guide

Small potatoes, also known as baby potatoes or new potatoes, are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to add some crunch to a salad, some creaminess to a soup, or some flavor to a main dish, small potatoes are a great choice. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to cook small potatoes, including boiling, steaming, roasting, grilling, sautéing, and microwaving.

Choosing the Right Small Potatoes

Before we dive into the different cooking methods, it’s essential to choose the right small potatoes for your dish. There are several varieties of small potatoes, each with its unique flavor, texture, and color. Here are a few popular varieties:

• New Potatoes: These are young, immature potatoes that are harvested before they reach full maturity. They have a thin, tender skin and a waxy texture.
• Fingerling Potatoes: These are small, slender potatoes that are shaped like fingers. They have a nutty flavor and a firm texture.
• Red Bliss Potatoes: These are small, round potatoes with a sweet, nutty flavor and a firm texture.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are small, yellow potatoes with a buttery, sweet flavor and a smooth texture.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Small Potatoes

When choosing small potatoes, there are several factors to consider:

• Size: Small potatoes come in a range of sizes, from 1-2 inches in diameter. Choose potatoes that are uniform in size so that they cook evenly.
• Color: Small potatoes come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, red, and purple. Choose potatoes that are firm and have no signs of green or sprouting.
• Texture: Small potatoes can be waxy or starchy. Waxy potatoes, like new potatoes, are great for boiling or steaming, while starchy potatoes, like Yukon Golds, are great for roasting or mashing.

Cooking Methods for Small Potatoes

Now that we’ve covered the different varieties of small potatoes and factors to consider when choosing them, let’s dive into the different cooking methods.

Boiling Small Potatoes

Boiling is a simple and quick way to cook small potatoes. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Place 1-2 pounds of small potatoes in a large pot of salted water.
• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
• Cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
• Drain the potatoes and serve hot.

Tips for Boiling Small Potatoes

• Use a large pot to prevent the potatoes from becoming crowded.
• Use cold water to prevent the potatoes from becoming waterlogged.
• Add salt to the water to bring out the flavor of the potatoes.

Steaming Small Potatoes

Steaming is a great way to cook small potatoes without losing their nutrients. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Place 1-2 pounds of small potatoes in a steamer basket.
• Steam the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
• Serve the potatoes hot.

Tips for Steaming Small Potatoes

• Use a steamer basket to prevent the potatoes from becoming waterlogged.
• Use a timer to ensure the potatoes are cooked evenly.
• Add herbs and spices to the steamer water for extra flavor.

Roasting Small Potatoes

Roasting is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of small potatoes. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Toss 1-2 pounds of small potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden brown.

Tips for Roasting Small Potatoes

• Use a high oven temperature to bring out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Use a single layer to prevent the potatoes from becoming crowded.
• Add herbs and spices to the potatoes for extra flavor.

Grilling Small Potatoes

Grilling is a great way to add a smoky flavor to small potatoes. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Toss 1-2 pounds of small potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Grill the potatoes for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re tender and slightly charred.

Tips for Grilling Small Potatoes

• Use a medium-high heat to prevent the potatoes from becoming too charred.
• Use a grill mat to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the grill.
• Add herbs and spices to the potatoes for extra flavor.

Sautéing Small Potatoes

Sautéing is a great way to add a crispy texture to small potatoes. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
• Add 1-2 pounds of small potatoes to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender and slightly browned.

Tips for Sautéing Small Potatoes

• Use a high heat to add a crispy texture to the potatoes.
• Use a small amount of oil to prevent the potatoes from becoming greasy.
• Add herbs and spices to the potatoes for extra flavor.

Microwaving Small Potatoes

Microwaving is a quick and easy way to cook small potatoes. Here’s a basic recipe:

• Place 1-2 pounds of small potatoes in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cook the potatoes on high for 3-5 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.

Tips for Microwaving Small Potatoes

• Use a microwave-safe dish to prevent the potatoes from exploding.
• Use a short cooking time to prevent the potatoes from becoming overcooked.
• Add herbs and spices to the potatoes for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking small potatoes is a simple and versatile process that can be done in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to add some crunch to a salad, some creaminess to a soup, or some flavor to a main dish, small potatoes are a great choice. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cook small potatoes to perfection every time.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Adding Flavor: Add herbs and spices to the potatoes for extra flavor. Some popular options include garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
• Using Different Cooking Liquids: Use different cooking liquids, such as chicken or vegetable broth, to add extra flavor to the potatoes.
• Adding Other Ingredients: Add other ingredients, such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to the potatoes for extra flavor and texture.

By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cook small potatoes to perfection every time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, cooking small potatoes is a simple and versatile process that can be done in a variety of ways.

What are the different types of small potatoes suitable for cooking?

Small potatoes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each with its unique characteristics and uses. Some popular types of small potatoes include new potatoes, fingerling potatoes, and baby red potatoes. New potatoes are harvested before they reach full maturity and have a thin, tender skin. Fingerling potatoes are long and slender, with a nutty flavor and firm texture. Baby red potatoes are small, round, and have a sweet, earthy flavor.

When choosing small potatoes, consider the recipe and desired texture. New potatoes are great for boiling or steaming, while fingerling potatoes are perfect for roasting or grilling. Baby red potatoes are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to side dishes.

How do I store small potatoes to maintain their freshness?

To keep small potatoes fresh, store them in a cool, dark place with good ventilation. Avoid storing potatoes in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause them to spoil quickly. A paper bag or breathable container is ideal for storing small potatoes, as it allows for airflow and helps to maintain humidity.

It’s also important to keep small potatoes away from strong-smelling foods, as they can absorb odors easily. Check on the potatoes regularly to remove any that are spoiling, as this can affect the rest of the batch. With proper storage, small potatoes can last for several weeks.

What is the best way to wash and peel small potatoes?

Before cooking small potatoes, wash them gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or eyes. For most recipes, it’s not necessary to peel small potatoes, as the skin is tender and nutritious. However, if you do need to peel them, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin.

To peel small potatoes easily, try soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes. This will help to loosen the skin, making it easier to remove. Alternatively, you can peel small potatoes after boiling or steaming, as the heat will help to loosen the skin.

Can I boil small potatoes with their skin on?

Yes, you can boil small potatoes with their skin on. In fact, boiling small potatoes with their skin on helps to retain their nutrients and flavor. Simply place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Boiling small potatoes with their skin on also helps to preserve their texture. The skin acts as a natural barrier, preventing the potatoes from becoming too soft or mushy. Once cooked, you can peel the potatoes if desired, or serve them with the skin on.

How do I roast small potatoes to bring out their natural sweetness?

To roast small potatoes and bring out their natural sweetness, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes in half or quarters, depending on their size, and place them in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and your choice of herbs and spices, and toss to coat.

Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized. You can also add other ingredients like garlic, rosemary, or lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Roasting small potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Can I cook small potatoes in a microwave?

Yes, you can cook small potatoes in a microwave. In fact, microwaving is a quick and easy way to cook small potatoes. Simply wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then cook on high for 3-4 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.

However, be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as this can make them dry and unappetizing. You can also wrap the potatoes in a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwaving small potatoes is a great way to cook them quickly, but be aware that the results may vary depending on the potato variety and your personal preference.

How do I know when small potatoes are cooked to perfection?

To check if small potatoes are cooked to perfection, insert a fork or knife into the potato. If it slides in easily, the potato is cooked. You can also check for doneness by cutting into the potato. If it’s tender and fluffy, it’s cooked.

Another way to check for doneness is to check the potato’s texture. Cooked small potatoes should be tender, but still firm enough to hold their shape. If they’re too soft or mushy, they’re overcooked. By checking for doneness regularly, you can ensure that your small potatoes are cooked to perfection every time.