Do you love potatoes? Have you ever wanted to make them in the Instant Pot but felt intimidated by all those scary buttons?
In this post, I will break down all the steps for a fool-proof potato boiling experience without relying on extra accessories like trivets or steamer baskets. Plus, here are some bonus tips for getting perfect results every time!
Sometimes, we need fork-tender potatoes, and sometimes a little bit of tender soft potatoes for a creamy potato salad.
Getting it right makes all the difference between a perfect side dish or overcooked, mushy potatoes.
If you love potatoes, then you know how convenient it is to have them cooked potatoes for any recipe.
There are a lot of details that go into getting the best texture, and I plan to share all of them here; using them would make your potatoes recipe go a lot faster and taste better.
I use potatoes in recipes like aloo matar, potato pancakes, tater tots, spicy potato curry, and even instant pot mashed potatoes. With an Instant Pot, you have the easiest way of boiling potatoes at your disposal!
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Types of potatoes to use
Before we dive into the steps, we must know what types of potatoes are best for boiling. Different potatoes have varying levels of starch content, which can affect their texture when boiled.
Russet potatoes: These are the most common and popular types of potatoes for boiling. They have a high starch content, which makes them perfect for fluffy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes. Most Idaho potatoes are this kind.
Yukon Gold potatoes: These are another excellent option for boiling in an Instant Pot. They are a cross between yellow and white potatoes. They have a medium-starch level and hold their shape well, making them ideal for potato salads or scalloped potatoes.
Red potatoes: These are low-starch potatoes and hold their shape well when boiled. They're perfect for potato salads or roasted potatoes with a crispy skin.
Why I love this
- It's quick and easy: With an Instant Pot, boiling potatoes takes only minutes compared to traditional stovetop methods. It is by far the easiest way to boil potatoes.
- Hands-free cooking: Once you set the timer, you can walk away and let your Instant Pot do all the work. You do not have to deal with over-boiled potatoes at the bottom of the pot. Instant pot recipes go much faster with this method.
- Retains flavor and nutrients: Boiling potatoes in an Instant Pot helps retain their natural flavors and nutrients as they cook quickly and in a sealed environment.
Instructions
Wash thoroughly and place potatoes in the inner pot. Add a few cups of water to immerse them. You can add salt if you wish, but it's not necessary.
Close the lid and set the valve to "sealing." Set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 10 minutes on high pressure.
Once done, release the pressure manually (after 5-8 minutes)with the quick-release option and carefully remove the potatoes using tongs or a spoon.
Can I cook potatoes with skin on?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to keep the potato skin on for added nutrients and texture, make sure to wash them thoroughly before placing them in the Instant Pot.
Can I cook the potatoes on top of the trivet?
The answer is Yes. If you have a trivet or a steamer basket, you can use it to elevate the potatoes above the water level. This method is useful if you want to cook other dishes along with your potatoes simultaneously.
Variations in cooking time
The cooking time for potatoes in an Instant Pot can vary based on a few factors, including the type and size of your potatoes.
- Small Potatoes: If you're using small potatoes such as baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes, you may want to reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 minutes on high pressure.
- Medium-sized Potatoes: Medium-sized potatoes like Yukon Golds are perfect when cooked for the standard time of 8 minutes on high pressure.
- Large Potatoes: Larger potatoes, such as Russets, may need a bit more time. Try setting your Instant Pot to 10-12 minutes on high pressure for these.
Remember, it's always better to undercook and check the potatoes if you're unsure. You can always add more cooking time, but you can't undo overcooked potatoes.
The key to perfect Instant Pot boiled potatoes is to experiment and find what works best for your tastes and your specific model of Instant Pot.
Storing and reheating boiled potatoes
Boiled potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for future use, making meal preparation more convenient. The best way to store them is in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They can last for up to 4-5 days when stored properly.
When it comes to reheating, you have a few options. You can reheat the potatoes in the microwave for about 2 minutes or until they are hot.
Even if you don't plan on reheating the potatoes, they can still be used in various recipes. From potato salads to mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless.
So, the next time you boil potatoes in your Instant Pot, consider making a little extra to save for later.
Recipe Ideas using boiled potatoes
Boiled potatoes are incredibly versatile, and you can use them in various delectable, easy recipes.
Here are some recipe ideas to turn your boiled potatoes into delicious meals: Potato masala, Aloo matar dry curry, samosa pinwheels, Spicy potato curry, and Sabudana upma.
Top tips
- Size of the potatoes: For even cooking, try to use potatoes of similar size. If they vary in size, cut the larger ones in half so they cook at the same rate as the smaller ones.
- Piercing the potatoes: While it's not a mandatory step, piercing the potatoes with a fork before cooking can help the heat penetrate more evenly.
- Use Cold Water: Start with cold water when boiling your potatoes. This ensures that the potatoes and the water come to temperature together, promoting even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don't overcrowd your Instant Pot. Leaving some space allows the heat to circulate better, ensuring even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the potatoes are done. If the fork goes in easily, your potatoes are ready. If you find resistance, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Seasoning: Adding a bit of salt to the water enhances the flavor of the potatoes. Alternatively, you can season the water with herbs or garlic for a flavorful twist.
- Drain Immediately: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them immediately to prevent them from becoming soggy.
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📖 Recipe
How To Boil Potatoes In Instant Pot Without Trivet
Equipment
Process Shot
Check above for step-by-step pictures (most of my recipes include pictures)
Ingredients
- 1.11 pound russet potato - 5 potatoes
- 1½ cup water
Instructions
- Wash thoroughly and place potatoes in the inner pot. Add a few cups of water to immerse them. You can add salt if you wish, but it's not necessary.1.11 pound russet potato, 1½ cup water
- Close the lid and set the valve to "sealing." Set the Instant Pot to manual mode for 10 minutes on high pressure.
- Once done, release the pressure manually (after 5-8 minutes)with the quick-release option and carefully remove the potatoes using tongs or a spoon.
Notes
- Size of the potatoes: For even cooking, try to use potatoes of similar size. If they vary in size, cut the larger ones in half so they cook at the same rate as the smaller ones.
- Piercing the potatoes: While it's not a mandatory step, piercing the potatoes with a fork before cooking can help the heat penetrate more evenly.
- Use Cold Water: Start with cold water when boiling your potatoes. This ensures that the potatoes and the water come to temperature together, promoting even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don't overcrowd your Instant Pot. Leaving some space allows the heat to circulate better, ensuring even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the potatoes are done. If the fork goes in easily, your potatoes are ready. If you find resistance, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Seasoning: Adding a bit of salt to the water enhances the flavor of the potatoes. Alternatively, you can season the water with herbs or garlic for a flavorful twist.
- Drain Immediately: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them immediately to prevent them from becoming soggy.
YOUR OWN NOTES
Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimation only.
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