Potatoes are an integral part of German cuisine. No matter whether as Side dish or main course. But how do you cook potatoes correctly? In this magazine article I take you on a culinary journey through the world of the versatile tuber. Today you will learn how to prepare them perfectly.
How long do potatoes cook for?
How long potatoes cook depends on various factors. On the one hand, there is the size of the tuber. But also whether you cook them with or without the peel. In general: Small potatoes have a cooking time of 10 to 20 minutes. On the other hand, you should cook larger specimens for 20 to 30 minutes. A simple fork test at the end of cooking time will help you tell if the potatoes are done. If you can easily pierce the fork into the potatoes, they are perfectly cooked.
Cooking potatoes with their skins on: how long do the tubers take?
Cooking potatoes with their skins on is very popular. This means that all important nutrients are retained. In addition, the cooking water does not dilute the taste. But how long do the tubers need in the pot? Because of the peel, the cooking time increases by a few minutes. Expect a cooking time of around 20 to 25 minutes for small to medium-sized potatoes. Larger ones can easily take 30 minutes or longer.
Important: Wash the unpeeled potatoes thoroughly before adding them to the lightly salted cooking water.
Why it may be better to eat potatoes without the peel
Potatoes with their skins on are not inherently unhealthy. In fact, the peel is rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals such as potassium and vitamin C. These nutrients are important for a healthy diet and can help prevent disease.
However, potato peels can too Pesticide residues included if the potatoes were not grown organically or if they were exposed to pesticides during cultivation or storage. In such cases, it may be advisable to remove the peel before consumption or to use organically grown potatoes.
In addition, some people may be sensitive to certain substances in potato peels, especially if they are unwashed or if the potatoes have a greenish discoloration, which indicates a high content Solanine can point out. Solanine is a naturally occurring toxin found in potatoes and other nightshades. It is important to remove green spots and shoots and wash or cook potatoes thoroughly before eating to minimize the risk of solanine poisoning.
Overall, potatoes with their skins on are a healthy option as long as they are prepared and eaten correctly.
Cooking potatoes: how long do the different types take?
Not every type of potato is the same. There are waxy, predominantly waxy and floury potatoes, and each variety has its own special characteristics when it comes to the topic of how long it takes to cook potatoes.
- Waxy potatoes They retain their shape when cooked and are ideal for salads or as a side dish. They are usually cooked after 15 to 20 minutes.
- Mainly waxy potatoes are a good compromise for versatile dishes. Their cooking time is between 20 and 25 minutes.
- Floury boiling potatoes break down more easily and are perfect for purees or soups. They should not be cooked for longer than 20 minutes or they will become too soft.
Important: For even cooking, all potatoes should be approximately the same size.
How long do purple potatoes cook?
Purple potatoes, also known as purple or blue potatoes, not only add color to the plate, but also an abundance of antioxidants. Their cooking time is similar to that of conventional potato varieties. However, there are a few special features to note.
The following generally applies to purple potatoes:
- Whole potatoes: If you want to cook purple potatoes whole, the cooking time is 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the size.
- Sliced potatoes: However, if you halve or cut the tubers into pieces before cooking, the cooking time will be shortened to 10 to 15 minutes.
Important: Put the potatoes in cold water and bring them to the boil. This way they cook more evenly. Purple potatoes also tend to lose some of their color when cooked. Especially if they are cooked for too long. To preserve the bright color, you should not overcook it and rinse it immediately with cold water after cooking.
Cook old potato varieties
Heirloom potato varieties, often referred to as heritage or heirloom potatoes, offer a variety of flavors, shapes and colors. However, their cooking times are slightly different than traditional varieties. However, in general:
- Waxy old varieties Similar to conventional waxy potatoes, they are cooked after 15 to 20 minutes. They hold their shape when cooked and are good in salads or as a side dish.
- Mainly waxy varieties should be ready in about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Floury varieties could be soft enough to puree or use in soups after just 15 to 20 minutes.
Some tips for cooking old potato varieties:
- Uniform sizes: Make sure the potatoes are about the same size so they cook at the same time. Larger potatoes can be halved or quartered to streamline cooking time.
- Water: Always place the tubers in cold water. The water should completely cover the potatoes.
- Check cooking time: The best way to check if potatoes are done is to use the fork test. If the fork can easily penetrate the potato without it falling apart, they are perfectly cooked.
- Color retention: Some heirloom varieties have a particular color (such as purple or red). To preserve the color, a dash of vinegar or lemon juice can be mixed into the cooking water.
Cooking potatoes isn’t that difficult if you keep a few basic things in mind. The most important thing is to choose the right cooking time and check regularly whether the potatoes are already soft. With a little practice, you’ll soon find out which method and cooking time works best for your favorite type of potato. And don’t forget: cooking should be fun and experimental. So dare to try out different varieties and preparation methods to discover your perfect potato side dish.
Delicious recipes with potatoes
If you now feel like cooking something with potatoes, I have delicious dishes for every taste!