How long to boil potatoes

Have you ever found yourself in the middle of preparing a delicious dinner, only to suddenly question how long to boil the potatoes for the perfect texture? Perhaps you’re gearing up for a family gathering and want to impress with your culinary skills, or maybe you’re simply following a new recipe that calls for boiled potatoes. No matter the scenario, timing can be tricky, and knowing precisely how long to boil these starchy staples can make all the difference in your dish.

For medium-sized potatoes, boil them for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender.

Boiling potatoes may seem straightforward, but several factors come into play that can affect cooking time. First, the size and type of potato matter; for instance, smaller potatoes or those cut into chunks will cook faster than larger, whole ones. Generally, medium-sized potatoes typically require 15-20 minutes of boiling. To check for doneness, you can pierce the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart. Moreover, starting with cold water and bringing it to a boil can ensure even cooking. Always remember to add salt to your water for enhanced flavor. After boiling, you can drain them and let them steam briefly to remove excess moisture, which is particularly helpful if you plan to mash or roast them afterward.