Boiling potatoes in plain water has been the go-to method for generations. It’s simple, familiar, and gets the job done — but it also dilutes the natural flavor of the potatoes, often leaving them bland and one-dimensional. If your mashed potatoes, roasted sides, or potato salads feel like they’re missing something, the boiling method might be the culprit.
The good news? With one small change, you can transform your potatoes from basic to unforgettable — before even adding butter or seasoning. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, this method is a total game-changer.
Flavor-Boosted Potato Boiling Method
Ingredients
-
2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
-
1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
-
1½ cups water (or just enough to cover the potatoes)
-
1 tablespoon salt
-
2 garlic cloves, smashed
-
1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme
-
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for added richness)
-
see continuation on next page
Boiling potatoes in plain water has been the go-to method for generations. It’s simple, familiar, and gets the job done — but it also dilutes the natural flavor of the potatoes, often leaving them bland and one-dimensional. If your mashed potatoes, roasted sides, or potato salads feel like they’re missing something, the boiling method might be the culprit.
The good news? With one small change, you can transform your potatoes from basic to unforgettable — before even adding butter or seasoning. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal, this method is a total game-changer.
Flavor-Boosted Potato Boiling Method
Ingredients
-
2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)
-
1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
-
1½ cups water (or just enough to cover the potatoes)
-
1 tablespoon salt
-
2 garlic cloves, smashed
-
1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme
-
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for added richness)
-
see continuation on next page
-