Introduction
Red potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from potato salad to shepherd’s pie. However, if you’ve never cooked them before, it can be intimidating to know where to start. In this article, we’ll break down the steps to cook red potatoes five different ways, including roasting, boiling, grilling, mashing, and frying.
Step-by-Step Guide
Before we dive into the different methods for cooking red potatoes, let’s start with the basics: how to prepare them. First, wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, cut them into your desired size and shape, keeping in mind that smaller pieces will cook faster.
Now that the potatoes are prepped, let’s get cooking. While the exact cooking time will depend on the method you’re using and the size of your pieces, a good rule of thumb is to cook until you can easily pierce the potato with a fork. To add extra flavor, you can season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices before cooking.
Once the potatoes are cooked, you can serve them as a side dish or use them in a variety of recipes. Keep reading to learn more about the different cooking methods for red potatoes.
Roasting
Roasting red potatoes is a simple and effective way to cook them, and it’s perfect for when you want crispy, golden brown potatoes. To roast red potatoes, preheat your oven to 400°F and toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not too crowded. Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through, until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
To add extra flavor to your roasted red potatoes, try adding garlic, rosemary, or Parmesan cheese before roasting. You can also use a cast-iron skillet instead of a baking sheet for even more caramelization.
Boiling
Boiling red potatoes is a popular way to cook them, and it’s perfect for when you want tender, creamy potatoes. To boil red potatoes, place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add salt and any other seasonings you like, such as garlic or bay leaves. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Boiled red potatoes can be used in a variety of recipes, such as potato salad or mashed potatoes. To make a simple potato salad, mix boiled red potatoes with mayo, celery, onions, and any other seasonings you like.
Grilling
Grilling red potatoes can add a unique smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer cookouts. To prepare red potatoes for grilling, cut them into wedges and toss them with olive oil, salt, and any other seasonings you like. You can also marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for extra flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the potatoes on the grates, making sure they’re not too crowded. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the potatoes occasionally, until they’re tender and golden brown on the outside.
Mashing
Mashed red potatoes can be a delicious side dish or ingredient in dishes like shepherd’s pie. To make mashed red potatoes, first, boil them (following the instructions above). Once they’re cooked, drain them and mash them with a potato masher or a fork. For a creamier texture, add warm milk or butter and continue mashing until the potatoes are the desired consistency.
To add extra flavor to your mashed red potatoes, try adding garlic, Parmesan cheese, or chives. You can also mix in other ingredients like sour cream, bacon, or veggies like peas or carrots.
Fry
Fried red potatoes can make for a delicious side dish or snack, and they’re perfect when you’re craving something crispy and salty. To fry red potatoes, heat a few inches of oil in a deep skillet or a Dutch oven. While the oil is heating up, cut the potatoes into thin slices or wedges.
When the oil reaches 375°F, carefully add the potatoes and fry them for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate and season them with salt and any other seasonings you like, such as cajun seasoning, garlic powder, or paprika.
Conclusion
Red potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in many different ways. From roasting to frying, there’s a method for everyone, and by experimenting with different seasonings and toppings, you can discover your favorite way to cook and serve them.
So next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up some red potatoes and try one of the methods described above.
