Add enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch or two.
If you want a detailed answer, read below
When boiling potatoes, it is important to add the correct amount of water to ensure that they are cooked properly. As a general rule of thumb, add enough water to cover the potatoes by about an inch or two. This will allow the potatoes to cook evenly without becoming too mushy or falling apart.
According to celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, “The key to cooking perfect potatoes is to start them off in cold water and bring them up to a boil, so they cook evenly throughout.” This is an important step to keep in mind, as it can affect the overall texture and taste of the potatoes.
In addition to the amount of water, the type of potato you are cooking can also affect the cooking time and water required. For example, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold may require less water and a shorter cooking time than starchy potatoes like Russet.
To make it easier to determine how much water to use when boiling potatoes, here is a helpful chart with recommended amounts based on the weight of the potatoes:
Weight of Potatoes
Amount of Water
1 pound
4 cups
2 pounds
8 cups
3 pounds
12 cups
4 pounds
16 cups
So the next time you’re boiling potatoes, remember to start with cold water, use the right amount for the type and weight of potato, and enjoy the delicious results!
Watch related video
The video explains how to boil potatoes, advising to scrub them well before adding them to a pot of cold water and simmering them for 15 to 25 minutes while uncovered. It is important not to cover the pot, since it might boil over. After testing the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are done cooking, they must be drained in a colander and allowed to cool before serving, and whether or not to peel them beforehand is optional.
Add to Pot Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with 1-inch of water. Sprinkle in a pinch or two of salt and bring to a boil. Putting the potatoes in the water while it is still cold will ensure the outside does not cook too much faster than the inside.
People also ask
How much water should you use to boil potatoes?
Answer: For three pounds of potatoes use a 4- to 5-quart pot. Add enough cold water to cover the tops of the potatoes. Add ½ to 1 teaspoon salt to the water. Turn the burner on high and bring water to boiling.
Are you supposed to add potatoes to boiling water?
For most potato dishes it’s important to add the potatoes to cold water and allow the water to come to a boil with the potatoes in the water. The potato starch can react as soon as it comes in contact with hot water, which will promote uneven cooking and mealy potatoes.
How long does it take to boil potatoes?
Peeled, cubed potatoes cut into small, one-inch pieces should cook in 10 to 12 minutes, once the water reaches a boil. Larger pieces (about 2 inches across) may need longer, around 15 minutes. Medium whole potatoes should boil 20 minutes before they’ll be tender.
Why do you boil potatoes in water?
As a response to this: You’ll want to boil potatoes any time you don’t want them to dry out (as they can when baked in the oven). So it’s a cooking method ideal for mashed potatoes or potato salad. Boiled potatoes on their own can also make a quick side dish.
Do you add water when boiling potatoes?
As an answer to this: When boiling potatoes, it is important to add water at a rate that will cover the potatoes evenly. It is also important to bring the pot of water to a boil before adding the potatoes. Do you add salt to water when boiling potatoes? The answer to this question depends on the type of potato and the amount of salt you are using.
Should you boil potatoes before adding Spuds?
Answer will be: If you first boil water and then add potato pieces, you’ll have a less than ideal texture in the end. The sudden bath of boiling water will quickly cook the outside of the spuds while leaving the inside uncooked. Instead, add all your potato cubes to a pot, and fill it with water just over the top of the potatoes.
Can You boil potatoes without a lid?
Response will be: You can boil the water without covering it, but a lid will trap the steam in and make the water boil faster. You can add garlic, bay leaves, or peppercorns to the water if you want to give the potatoes a little flavor while they cook. Reduce the heat to low once the water reaches a rolling boil.
Do potatoes need to be boiled before eating?
Potatoes are boiled in cold water to cook them. Boil potatoes for 5 minutes in a pot of water before eating them, to make them soft and easier to eat. Boil potatoes until they are fully cooked, so they don’t turn into mush when you try to eat them.
Do you add water when boiling potatoes?
Answer will be: When boiling potatoes, it is important to add water at a rate that will cover the potatoes evenly. It is also important to bring the pot of water to a boil before adding the potatoes. Do you add salt to water when boiling potatoes? The answer to this question depends on the type of potato and the amount of salt you are using.
How do you boil potatoes?
The most common way to boil potatoes is on the stove in a pot of water. However, if you want more flavorful potatoes, consider boiling them in broth or a mixture of broth and water. 1. Prep Your Potatoes Start by scrubbing the potatoes with a clean produce brush ($8, Bed Bath & Beyond) to remove any dirt, then rinse.
Should you boil potatoes before adding Spuds?
Answer will be: If you first boil water and then add potato pieces, you’ll have a less than ideal texture in the end. The sudden bath of boiling water will quickly cook the outside of the spuds while leaving the inside uncooked. Instead, add all your potato cubes to a pot, and fill it with water just over the top of the potatoes.
Can you cook potatoes if water is cold?
While you can wait for the water to boil before adding in the potatoes, they will cook more evenly if you add them to the pot while the water is cold. Potatoes added to boiling water can turn out mushy on the outside and tough on the inside. When the water reaches a boil, reduce it to a simmer and cover. Step 3. Boil the potatoes until soft
