Turn the heat to high and bring that water to a rolling boil. Then, immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. You want happy little bubbles, not a volcanic eruption.
Let them bubble away, uncovered, for about 15 to 25 minutes. The time depends on size. A small red potato might take 15 minutes; a big Yukon Gold might take 25. Start checking at the 15-minute mark.
The Fork Test (Don’t Skip This)
Grab a fork or a sharp knife. Poke the thickest part of a potato. Does it slide in with barely any resistance? Perfect. Does it fight back? Keep boiling.
If the potato falls off the fork, you’ve gone too far. You’re now making potato salad base, which is fine, but not what we wanted. Aim for that sweet spot: tender, but not falling apart.
When they’re done, turn off the heat. Don’t let them sit in the hot water—they’ll keep cooking and get waterlogged. Drain them immediately.
How To Boil Whole Unpeeled Potatoes
