How To Cook Small Round Potatoes

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How To Cook Small Round Potatoes

Master the Art of Cooking Small Round Potatoes

When it comes to certain types of potatoes, small round potatoes steal the show with their delightful size and excellent flavor. These petite spuds are incredibly versatile and can be cooked in various ways to create mouthwatering dishes. Whether you want to roast them to crispy perfection or boil them for a comforting side dish, we’ve got you covered with some easy and delicious cooking methods. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your guests with these fantastic recipes!

1. Roasted Small Round Potatoes

Roasting small round potatoes is a surefire way to bring out their natural sweetness and create a crispy exterior. Here’s how you can achieve potato perfection:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
  3. Cut them in half or leave them whole for bite-sized portions.
  4. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary.
  6. Toss the potatoes to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
  7. Spread them out in a single layer and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, and serve them as a satisfying side dish or as a tasty addition to a salad.

2. Boiled Small Round Potatoes

If you prefer a softer and creamier texture, boiling small round potatoes is the way to go. This method is perfect for creating delicious mashed potatoes or adding them to stews and soups. Follow these simple steps:

  • Start by rinsing the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  • Add a generous pinch of salt to the water, which will enhance the flavor of the potatoes.
  • Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
  • Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly before peeling off the skin, if desired.
  • You can enjoy these boiled potatoes as a simple side dish, or use them for mashing, frying, or incorporating into your favorite recipes.

3. Smashed Small Round Potatoes

If you’re looking for a unique and visually appealing potato dish, try making smashed small round potatoes. This method combines the best of both worlds—the creamy interior of boiled potatoes and the crispy crust of roasted potatoes. Here’s how to prepare this delectable treat:

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Boil the small round potatoes until they are fork-tender, following the boiling method mentioned earlier.
  3. Drain the potatoes and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Using a fork or a potato masher, gently smash each potato to flatten it, but ensure they remain intact.
  5. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
  6. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy.
  7. Serve these crispy smashed small round potatoes as a delicious appetizer, side dish, or even as a unique topping for salads and sandwiches.

Now that you have a repertoire of cooking methods for small round potatoes, it’s time to explore and experiment with different flavors and seasonings. These versatile potatoes are sure to add a delightful touch to your meals, whether you’re enjoying them as a side dish or incorporating them into your favorite recipes. So, roll up your sleeves, grab a few handfuls of these tiny spuds, and let your culinary creativity shine!

Share your tips and techniques for cooking small round potatoes in the Cooking Techniques forum and let’s discuss!
FAQ:
What are some popular cooking methods for small round potatoes?
Some popular cooking methods for small round potatoes include boiling, roasting, steaming, microwaving, and pan-frying.
Should I peel the skin off small round potatoes before cooking?
It depends on personal preference and the recipe you are following. The skin of small round potatoes is thin and tender, and it contains essential nutrients. If you prefer the taste and texture of the skin, you can leave it on. Otherwise, you can peel the potatoes before cooking.
How long should I boil small round potatoes?
The cooking time for boiling small round potatoes will vary depending on their size. Generally, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes to boil small round potatoes until they are fork-tender. To check for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the potatoes. If they easily slide off the utensil, they are done.
How do I roast small round potatoes in the oven?
To roast small round potatoes, preheat your oven to around 400°F (200°C). Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy and golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
Can I steam small round potatoes?
Yes, you can steam small round potatoes. To steam them, place the potatoes in a steamer basket or a colander set over boiling water. Cover and steam for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are tender. Steaming helps retain the nutrients and natural flavors of the potatoes.
Is it possible to microwave small round potatoes?
Yes, microwaving is a quick method to cook small round potatoes. Pierce the potatoes with a fork a few times to create steam vents, then place them on a microwave-safe plate. Cook on high power for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
How should I pan-fry small round potatoes?
To pan-fry small round potatoes, start by boiling them until they are partially cooked, around 5 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, heat some oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and cook until they’re golden brown on all sides, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.

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