Correctly salting potatoes: Save energy and enhance flavour
This is one of the simplest kitchen tasks, and we do it almost every day. Yet, sometimes, out of habit or haste, things do not go as they should. Let's remind ourselves of some important rules.
Although cooking potatoes seems straightforward, making a small mistake is easy. Although it may seem minor, it affects the taste of the vegetables. Do you add salt to cold water before boiling it? This extends the cooking time, thereby increasing your energy bills. So, how should you correctly salt the water for potatoes?
Common mistakes when cooking potatoes
The best time to add salt to the water is when it reaches boiling point. This way, the salt quickly dissolves, leaving no residue on the pots. Adding salt at the right moment not only protects kitchen equipment but also saves time and energy while preserving the full flavour of the potatoes.
Salting the water after it has boiled is also a great way to reduce energy usage. Water with salt reaches boiling point more slowly than pure water, resulting in higher energy consumption and longer cooking times. Correcting this mistake can bring significant savings to a household budget and extend the longevity of your pots. Additionally, cooking potatoes on a low flame with a lid can further increase energy efficiency.
How to properly cook potatoes?
Too salty? Not salty enough? Such mishaps do happen, but the rule is simple. For approximately 3 litres of water, it's best to add 2 teaspoons of salt. This ratio ensures the potatoes are well-balanced in taste – neither too salty nor bland.
Besides salt, an important aspect is the temperature of the water in which you start cooking the potatoes. We often cover them with cold water. However, contrary to common practice, it's better to cook them in warm or even hot water. Why? Cooking potatoes in hot water stops the process of releasing starch and leaching vitamins. As a result, the potatoes will be more floury after cooking and will retain their nutritional benefits.
