Steaming Potatoes: Pressure Cooker Magic

Steaming potatoes is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this versatile vegetable. It is a convenient method that helps retain the natural flavour, texture, and nutrients of the potatoes. In this article, we will explore the steps to steam potatoes in a pressure cooker, the types of potatoes suitable for steaming, and the benefits of steaming over boiling.

How to steam potatoes in a pressure cooker

Steaming potatoes in a pressure cooker is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this versatile vegetable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam potatoes in a pressure cooker, such as an Instant Pot:

Preparation:

First, select your potatoes. Any type of potato can be steamed, but smaller waxy varieties with low starch content, such as Yukon Gold, Dutch potatoes, red potatoes, or fingerlings, are best for holding their shape. If using baby potatoes, you can steam them whole. For larger potatoes, cut them into evenly sized chunks or slices to ensure even cooking. The amount of potatoes you use will depend on the size of your pressure cooker. A 6-quart pressure cooker can hold up to 5 pounds of potatoes at a time.

Next, wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but leaving the skin intact adds texture and nutrients.

Cooking:

Place a metal trivet or steamer basket into your pressure cooker. If using a steamer basket, ensure it is elevated so that the potatoes will be above the water level while cooking. Add 1 cup of water to the pot.

Place the potatoes on top of the trivet or in the steamer basket. If desired, sprinkle the potatoes with salt or your favourite seasonings. Close the lid of the pressure cooker, ensuring the venting knob is closed and set to the sealing position.

The cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes. For small baby potatoes, cook for 5-7 minutes. For medium-sized potatoes (around 5 oz), cook for 10 minutes. For larger potatoes (6-7 oz), cook for 12 minutes, and for large potatoes (10 oz), cook for 14 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure.

Carefully open the lid and remove the potatoes from the pressure cooker. They will be hot, so use oven mitts or tongs. The potatoes will continue to cook after removing them from the cooker, so if they are not quite tender enough, they will continue to cook for a short while.

Serving:

Steamed potatoes are incredibly versatile. You can serve them hot as a side dish with butter, chives, salt, and pepper. You can also mash them, make them into a potato salad, or use them as an ingredient in other recipes such as soups or casseroles. For added flavour, drizzle with melted butter or olive oil, or sprinkle with herbs or seasonings.

Tips:

• If you don't have a steamer basket, you can use the metal trivet or rack that comes with most pressure cookers. Just ensure the potatoes don't fall through the gaps.
• You can also place a small plate or bowl on the trivet and steam the potatoes on top.
• Another option is to roll up balls or logs of aluminium foil and place them in the bottom of the pressure cooker to hold the potatoes out of the water.
• You can steam potatoes without a trivet by placing them directly in the water. However, the Steam function works best with a trivet as it increases the temperature very quickly, as it does not expect food to be in direct contact with the bottom of the pot.
• If you want to add more flavour, you can swap out the water for chicken or vegetable broth.
• To prevent potatoes from falling apart while cooking, you can add vinegar to the water (15ml per litre or 1 tablespoon per quart). This works because potatoes fall apart when the pectin breaks down, and acidic water prevents this from happening.
• You can also add fresh herbs to the pot while steaming to infuse the potatoes with flavour. Try parsley, mint, thyme, tarragon, rosemary, or dill.

Storing and Reheating:

Allow the potatoes to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze cooked potatoes for up to 3 months, but be aware that the texture will change.

To reheat, microwave for 1 minute or place back in the pressure cooker with a steamer basket, add a cup of water, and pressure cook on high for 1 minute. However, potatoes may become softer after being cooked twice, so it is best to use a very firm/waxy potato variety if you plan to reheat this way.

The best potatoes for steaming

Yes, you can steam potatoes in a pressure cooker. The best potatoes for steaming are waxy, low-starch potatoes. These include Yukon Gold, Dutch potatoes, red potatoes, fingerlings, Carola, Austrian Crescent, LaRette, Round White Potatoes, and Baby Potatoes.

Waxy potatoes have a thin skin and a moist and creamy interior, which makes them ideal for steaming. They also hold their shape well, even after cooking.

When steaming potatoes, it's important to adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the potatoes. Smaller potatoes will cook faster, while larger potatoes will take longer. It's also a good idea to wash and scrub the potatoes before steaming to remove any dirt.

Steaming is a healthy and simple way to cook potatoes, and steamed potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, sides, gratins, and soups.

How long to steam potatoes

Yes, you can steam potatoes in a pressure cooker. The cooking time will depend on the size of the potatoes and the type of pressure cooker you are using.

For example, if you are using a pressure cooker such as Presto, it will take 5 to 10 minutes to cook whole, skin-on potatoes. If you are using an electric pressure cooker, it will take around eight minutes to cook potatoes on a steamer rack. If you are using an Instant Pot, it will take between five and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.

• Baby potatoes: Pressure cook for eight minutes, then do a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Medium-size potatoes (5oz): Pressure cook for 10 minutes, then do a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Medium-large potatoes (6-7oz): Pressure cook for 12 minutes, then do a natural release for 10 minutes.
• Large potatoes (10oz): Pressure cook for 14 minutes, then do a natural release for 10 minutes.

It's important to note that the cooking time will remain the same whether you are cooking one or five potatoes in an Instant Pot. However, if you are cooking a larger quantity of potatoes, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How to prevent potatoes from falling apart

Yes, you can steam potatoes in a pressure cooker! Here are some tips on how to prevent potatoes from falling apart:

Firstly, choose the right type of potatoes. Opt for waxy, low-starch potatoes with higher moisture and starch content, such as Round White Potatoes, Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerling potatoes. These varieties will hold their shape better during cooking. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets or Idahos, which are more prone to breaking apart.

Next, prepare your potatoes properly. Start by scrubbing the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. You can leave the skin on for added texture and flavour, but if you prefer peeled potatoes, only remove a thin layer to retain nutrients. Cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Aim for chunks around 1 to 2 inches in size. Keep in mind that smaller pieces might cook faster but are also more likely to fall apart.

When it comes to cooking, use a steamer basket or trivet to keep the potatoes above the water level. Add about 1 cup of water to the pressure cooker, place the potatoes in the steamer basket or on the trivet, and secure the lid. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your potatoes. For small potatoes, cook for around 7-8 minutes, and for medium-sized potatoes, cook for about 10 minutes. Then, do a natural release for 10 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure.

To prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushy potatoes, pay attention to the cooking time and don't force-cool the potatoes. Instead, let them cool naturally in the same water. Additionally, avoid rough handling when straining the potatoes, as this can also cause them to break apart.

With these tips in mind, you'll be able to steam potatoes in your pressure cooker without them falling apart!

How to store leftover steamed potatoes

Storing leftover steamed potatoes is a straightforward process, but there are a few important steps to follow to ensure food safety and maintain the quality of the potatoes. Here is a detailed guide on how to store leftover steamed potatoes:

Allow the Potatoes to Cool:

Before storing, it is essential to let the steamed potatoes cool down completely. Placing hot potatoes in the refrigerator can be unsafe and may affect the temperature of other items in the fridge. It is best to let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour.

Use Airtight Containers:

Once the potatoes have cooled, transfer them to airtight containers or sealable bags. Using airtight containers helps maintain moisture levels and prevents the potatoes from drying out. It also prevents odours from other foods in the fridge from affecting the potatoes.

Refrigerate:

Place the sealed containers of potatoes in the refrigerator. Steamed potatoes can be safely stored in the fridge for up to four days. After that, there is a risk of bacterial growth, and the potatoes may start to spoil.

Freeze for Longer Storage:

If you want to store the leftover steamed potatoes for longer, consider freezing them. Transfer the cooled potatoes to freezer-safe bags or containers and store them in the freezer for up to three months. However, keep in mind that freezing may alter the texture of the potatoes, making them slightly softer when thawed.

Safe Handling:

When handling leftover potatoes, always use clean utensils and containers. Wash your hands before handling the potatoes, and avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods. Practising good food safety habits will help prevent bacterial growth and ensure the potatoes remain safe to eat.

Frequently asked questions