Why you should never cook potatoes in water

Try these methods instead

If you want tender potatoes without surrounding them with water, steaming is one of the easiest alternatives. The potatoes cook in hot steam rather than sitting submerged in a pan. You still get a soft center, but there is less direct contact with water. Cut them into even pieces, place them in a steamer basket, and cook until a knife slides in easily. They are excellent for mash, salads, or simply serving with butter and herbs.

The microwave is another useful option. Prick whole potatoes with a fork, place them on a microwave-safe plate, and cook until soft, turning them during cooking if needed. Studies comparing cooking methods have found that microwaving can retain more vitamin C than boiling in water. It also has an obvious advantage on a busy evening: it is fast.

For small potatoes, you can also try cooking them in a covered pan with just a splash of water or stock. This is closer to braising than boiling. The potatoes cook in the small amount of liquid, which can then become part of the dish instead of being poured away. Add garlic, herbs, or a little butter, and the potatoes absorb flavor as they soften.