Baby potatoes are a delightful and versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Their small size means they cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. Whether you want them roasted, boiled, or tossed with herbs and butter, cooking baby potatoes is easy and rewarding. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to cooking baby potatoes that will help you get them just right every time.
Choosing Your Baby Potatoes
Baby potatoes come in various colors like red, yellow, and purple. They are young potatoes harvested early, which means their skin is thin and tender, and they have a naturally sweet, creamy texture. You can leave the skin on for extra nutrients and texture.
How to Cook Baby Potatoes: Methods That Work
1. Boiling Baby Potatoes
Boiling is one of the simplest ways to cook baby potatoes, perfect for salads or as a base for other recipes.
– Start by rinsing the potatoes thoroughly.
– If some potatoes are larger than bite-sized, cut them in half for even cooking.
– Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water, about an inch above the potatoes.
– Bring the water to a boil, then add about a tablespoon of salt.
– Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
– Drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for a minute to remove excess moisture.
– Toss with butter, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like parsley or garlic powder.
– Serve warm or at room temperature for a comforting side dish.
2. Roasting Baby Potatoes
Roasting baby potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a crispy, golden exterior.
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C).
– Wash and dry the potatoes. You can leave them whole or cut larger ones in half.
– Toss the potatoes with olive oil or melted butter, salt, and pepper.
– Add herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or dried herbs for extra flavor.
– Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet (lining with parchment paper is optional).
– Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender inside and crispy outside.
– Sprinkle with flaky salt and fresh herbs before serving.
3. Steaming Baby Potatoes
Steaming is a gentle way to cook baby potatoes while preserving nutrients and flavor.
– Place the potatoes in a steamer basket over boiling water.
– Cover and steam for about 15 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
– Remove and toss with butter, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
– Serve immediately for a light and healthy side.
Flavoring Ideas for Baby Potatoes
Baby potatoes are like a blank canvas that pairs well with many flavors. Here are some easy ideas:
– Herbs: Fresh parsley, rosemary, thyme, dill, or tarragon.
– Spices: Garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or herbs de Provence.
– Butter & Oil: Toss with melted butter for richness or olive oil for a lighter touch.
– Extras: Add minced garlic before roasting or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese after boiling.
Tips for Perfect Baby Potatoes
– Use cold water when boiling to ensure even cooking and prevent the skins from splitting.
– Let boiled potatoes steam dry before adding butter or oil so they absorb the flavors better.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when roasting; give potatoes space to crisp up.
– Flip or stir potatoes halfway through roasting for even browning.
– Adjust cooking times based on potato size; smaller potatoes cook faster.
Easy Recipe: Roasted Baby Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Ingredients:
– 1½ pounds baby potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1½ teaspoons dried parsley or fresh herbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Wash and halve larger baby potatoes.
- In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Spread potatoes cut side down on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
This simple recipe is sure to impress and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Baby potatoes are easy to cook and endlessly adaptable. Whether you boil, roast, or steam them, they make a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked baby potatoes!