5 Ways to Cook Potatoes Like a Chef - Mashed, Baked, Pan-Fried, Roasted Potatoes and Salad

Among the vast array of ingredients, potatoes, with their unassuming appearance and boundless versatility, have firmly secured a place on dining tables worldwide. Whether by the fireside in a rustic countryside cottage or in the refined ambiance of an upscale urban restaurant, this humble tuber transforms into myriad forms, evoking memories of "home" and a deep yearning for culinary delight. In the What the Food series, we dive into five classic potato cooking methods—potato salad, fried potatoes, roasted potatoes, baked potatoes, and mashed potatoes. Each method is not only simple and approachable but also brings the warmth and satisfaction of homemade cooking. Join us as we explore the delicious world of potatoes and uncover the extraordinary charm of this everyday ingredient.

Understanding Potatoes: The Secrets of Varieties and Textures

The allure of potatoes begins with their diverse varieties and textures. Based on starch content, potatoes can be categorised into three main types: high-starch, medium-starch, and low-starch. High-starch potatoes, such as Russet or King Edward, have a loose, dry texture and excellent flavour absorption, making them ideal for mashed potatoes or baked potatoes due to their light, fluffy mouthfeel when cooked. Medium-starch potatoes, like Yukon Gold or Désirée, are versatile all-rounders, maintaining a smooth texture and intact shape whether fried, roasted, or used in soups. Low-starch potatoes, such as new potatoes, boast a crisp texture and smooth surface, making them perfect for potato salads or soups. Understanding these characteristics not only helps you select the right potato but also ensures that each dish achieves its optimal flavor and texture.

Watch the video below now! Scroll down for a detailed written recipe and instructions.

Potato Salad: A Refreshing Classic for Summer

Potato salad is a simple yet richly layered dish, perfect for summer gatherings or light meals.

Ingredients (serve 1):

Steps:

1.

Choose low-starch new potatoes, wash them thoroughly, and cut them into even chunks with the skin on. Boil in salted water for 10 to 12 minutes until a knife glides through effortlessly.

2.

Meanwhile, prepare boiled eggs, cooking them until the yolks are slightly runny to retain a rich, eggy aroma, then cut into pieces.

3.

Drain and cool the cooked potatoes, then mix with crispy fried bacon strips, mayonnaise, mustard, parsley, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

For a fresher taste, swap mayonnaise for yogurt. After chilling in the fridge, the sauce gradually seeps into the potatoes, intensifying the flavor. This salad is not only visually appealing but also soft yet intact in texture, leaving a lingering, delightful aftertaste.

Pan-Fried Potatoes: Simple Luxury with a Crispy Exterior and Soft Interior

Fried potatoes, with their crispy skin and moist interior, are an irresistible treat.

Ingredients (serve 1):

Steps:

1.

Select small new potatoes, wash them with the skin on, and boil in salted water for 15 to 20 minutes until soft, then drain. Place the potatoes in a flat-bottomed pan and gently flatten them until they still hold together.

2.

Fry in a mixture of butter and olive oil over medium-low heat, cooking each side for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crispy. Season with a sprinkle of salt during frying.

3.

Finish with black pepper and parsley.

The magic of this method lies in flattening the potatoes to increase contact with the pan, resulting in a richer, crispier texture. Whether served as a breakfast side or a party snack, fried potatoes always add a touch of surprise to the table.

Roasted Potatoes: Rustic Charm with Rich Flavour

Roasted potatoes are a simple yet versatile side dish, pairing beautifully with steak, roast chicken, or fried fish.

Ingredients (serve 1):

Steps:

1.

Choose high-starch brushed potatoes, peel, and cut them into ping-pong ball-sized pieces. Boil in salted water for 10 minutes, then drain.

2.

Return the potatoes to the pot, cover, and gently shake to create a rough starch layer on the surface, then chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set the texture.

3.

Preheat the oven to 210°C, heat olive oil and butter in a baking tray until the butter melts, then add the chilled potatoes, coating them evenly with the oil mixture. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and roast for 30 to 40 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the surface is golden and crispy. Finish with thyme and black pepper. These roasted potatoes, crispy outside and soft inside, offer a rich flavor that’s unforgettable from the first bite.

Baked Potatoes: A Sinfully Comforting Culinary Delight

Baked potatoes, with their fluffy interior and rich toppings, are a comforting dish that warms the soul.

Ingredients (serve 1):

Steps:

1.

Use brushed potatoes, wash and pat dry, then poke several small holes on the surface with a fork to allow heat dissipation and prevent bursting. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, wrap in parchment paper, and bake at 190°C for 45 to 60 minutes.

2.

Once done, cut in half and scoop out some of the flesh. Mix the scooped potato with a pinch of salt, grated cheddar cheese, and fragrant fried chorizo, then stuff the mixture back into the potato skins.

3.

Sprinkle more cheese on top and bake until melted.

4.

Finish with a dollop of sour cream, additional chorizo, and chopped chives. The rich cheese and savory chorizo blend with the tangy sour cream, creating a drool-worthy masterpiece.

Mashed Potatoes: Restaurant-Quality Silky Indulgence

Crafting restaurant-quality mashed potatoes that melt in the mouth requires attention to detail.

Ingredients (serve 3-4):

Steps:

1.

Select high-starch potatoes and place them on a baking tray lined with rock salt. Bake at 165°C for one and a half hours, allowing the salt to gently draw out moisture, resulting in a drier texture.

2.

Meanwhile, heat cream, butter, and salt in a pot over low heat until boiling—this preheating prevents fat separation later.

3.

Peel the hot baked potatoes and mash them quickly to retain warmth. Gradually add the butter mixture in two or three batches, stirring thoroughly.

4.

Lastly pass through a sieve for an ultra-smooth texture. This mashed potato is velvety, with a rich creamy and buttery flavour, perfectly complementing steaks or roast chicken.

The Infinite Possibilities of Potatoes

Potatoes are not just a staple on the daily table but a canvas for creativity and warmth in homemade cooking. From the refreshing potato salad to the crispy fried potatoes, from the richly flavored roasted potatoes to the indulgent baked potatoes, and the silky mashed potatoes, these five cooking methods each have their unique charm yet are equally captivating. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, these recipes are easy to master, allowing you to create the most heartwarming flavors with the simplest ingredients. Get cooking and let the versatile charm of potatoes add a warm glow to your dining table!