Salt potatoes are a beloved dish, especially popular in upstate New York, known for their creamy interior and salty, crusty exterior. If you’ve never tried them, you’re in for a treat! Cooking salt potatoes is straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients and simple steps. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
What Are Salt Potatoes?
Salt potatoes are small, whole potatoes boiled in heavily salted water. This method creates a unique salty crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and creamy. Despite the large amount of salt in the water, the potatoes themselves are not overly salty because the salt doesn’t penetrate deeply inside when boiled whole with the skin on.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Small potatoes: Mini or new potatoes work best. You can use red, white, or yellow varieties, or a mix. Try to pick potatoes that are about the same size for even cooking.
– Salt: Use fine table salt, sea salt, kosher salt, or pickling salt. The key is to use a lot-about 2 tablespoons of salt per cup of water is standard, or roughly ½ cup of salt for every 10 ounces of potatoes.
– Butter: Melted butter is classic for tossing the potatoes after cooking.
– Optional herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, or dill can add a lovely fresh flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Cook Salt Potatoes
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly but do not peel or cut them. Keeping the skins on prevents the salt from soaking into the flesh, which would make them too salty.
2. Make the Salt Water
Fill a large pot with cold water. Add the salt and stir well until it is completely dissolved. You want the water so salty that some salt might settle at the bottom, indicating saturation.
3. Boil the Potatoes
Add the whole potatoes to the salted water, making sure they are fully submerged. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender but still firm, about 15 to 20 minutes depending on size. Test doneness by poking a potato with a fork-it should slide in easily without the potato falling apart.
4. Drain and Dry
Drain the potatoes well. To develop the signature salty crust, return the potatoes to the hot pot (off the heat) and gently shake them around to help the skins dry and form a crust.
5. Serve with Butter and Herbs
Transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl. Pour melted butter over them and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs if you like, and add a dash of black pepper for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Salt Potatoes
– Use waxy, small potatoes like new potatoes or fingerlings because they hold their shape and cook evenly.
– Don’t peel or cut the potatoes before boiling to avoid overly salty interiors.
– The salty water raises the boiling temperature, which helps create the creamy texture inside the potatoes.
– If the water doesn’t cover the potatoes fully, add more water and salt in the same ratio to maintain the saltiness.
– Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Leftover Salt Potatoes
Salt potatoes are so tasty that leftovers are a bonus! Here are some ideas:
– Pan-fry smashed potatoes: After boiling and cooling, gently smash the potatoes and fry them in a skillet with a bit of oil or butter until crispy. Add bacon or cheese for extra indulgence.
– Bake smashed potatoes: Spread smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and roast in a hot oven (425°F) until golden and crispy.
– Air fry: Toss whole or smashed potatoes in an air fryer until crispy for a quick snack or side.
Why Are Salt Potatoes So Good?
The magic lies in the saltwater bath. The salt raises the boiling point of the water, cooking the potatoes at a slightly higher temperature. This process creates a creamy interior texture and a thin, flavorful salt crust on the skin. The potatoes absorb just enough salt to enhance their natural flavor without becoming salty inside.
Salt potatoes are a simple yet impressive dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With just potatoes, salt, and butter, you can create a side that’s creamy, salty, and utterly delicious. Try making them for your next meal-you’ll be hooked!