How to prepare potatoes

Potatoes are one of the most widely available vegetables in Canada. Often overlooked by fancier veggies like asparagus or French green beans, potatoes are an affordable and versatile ingredient. Potatoes are also healthy: white potatoes are a source of potassium, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and fibre. They’re also incredibly easy to cook, and no one knows potatoes more than the farmers of Prince Edward Island. Here are six of the easiest, no-fail ways to cook potatoes.

Perfectly boiled potatoes

How long to boil potatoes is a question everyone asks. Cut potatoes into small pieces to speed up cooking time. Avoid bringing to a rapid boil as this will often cook the potatoes unevenly. To avoid soggy or mushy potatoes, remove from water immediately after potatoes are fork-tender tpotatoes. Drain well.

Easy baked potatoes

Choose the same sized potatoes so they cook at the same rate and pierce the skins several times to allow steam to escape. A medium- sized potato should take 40–50 minutes at 425° F in the oven, or 4–6 minutes on high in the microwave, although this time will increase if microwaving multiple potatoes.

How to make crispy fried potatoes

Slice into even medium-sized pieces so they cook consistently. Blanch potatoes until they are soft, and then allow them to dry; when fried, they will develop a crispy exterior and a soft and fluffy interior. Use enough oil so the spuds do not stick to the hot pan or skillet.

The best oven-roasted potatoes

To roast potatoes, cut into halves or quarters roughly the same size and try using medium-starch potatoes such as reds or fingerlings. Parboil first if possible as it will allow for a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Let the potatoes sit after seasoning as the potatoes will further absorb flavour, then toss in butter or oil to prevent sticking when everything is hot.

Tips for making mashed potatoes

Cut potatoes into even sizes and cook until easily pierced with a fork. Avoid using an electric mixer or food processor as this often makes potatoes very sticky. Heat your milk, butter or margarine, as the potatoes will best absorb the flavours when everything is hot. Here are more tips for making the best mashed potatoes.

How to grill potatoes on the barbecue

Slice uncooked potatoes and place in an aluminum pie plate or foil packet, adding vegetable/ olive oil or butter and spices, and placing the foil on the grill. You can also wrap potatoes in foil and poke several holes with a fork through the potato and the foil.