Steaming Potatoes: Pressure Cooker Time And Tips

Steamed potatoes are a versatile dish that can be used in many ways, from salads and sides to gratins and soups. The pressure cooker method is a simple and fast way to cook whole potatoes, and the cooking time will depend on the size of the potatoes. For example, baby potatoes will take around 8 minutes, while large potatoes can take up to 14 minutes. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender.

How long does it take to steam potatoes in a pressure cooker?

Steaming potatoes in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy process that can be done in a few simple steps. The time it takes to steam potatoes in a pressure cooker depends on the size of the potatoes and the type of pressure cooker being used.

First, it is important to select potatoes of roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. For medium-sized potatoes, the cooking time is typically around 10 minutes at high pressure. For baby or new potatoes, the cooking time can be as little as 8 minutes, while larger potatoes may take up to 12-15 minutes. It is recommended to use the pressure cook or manual setting on the pressure cooker.

After adding water to the pot and placing the potatoes on a steamer rack or basket, the pressure cooker should be sealed and set to high pressure. Once the desired cooking time is reached, the pressure can be released naturally or quickly by moving the pressure vent to the venting position. It is important to refer to the pressure cooker's manual for specific instructions on the quick release method.

Additionally, the cooking time remains the same regardless of the quantity of potatoes being cooked. However, it is important to ensure that the potatoes are arranged in a single layer within the pressure cooker for the best results.

By following these steps, perfectly steamed potatoes can be achieved in a pressure cooker, making them a convenient and efficient option for meal preparation.

How to prepare potatoes for pressure cooking

Selecting and Preparing Your Potatoes

First, select your potatoes. You can use any kind of potato, such as Yukon Gold, red, or russet potatoes. You can also leave the skin on or peel it off—it's up to you! Once you've chosen your potatoes, scrub them and cut them into 1 1/2-inch pieces. If you prefer to cook your potatoes whole, that's fine, but they will take longer to cook (at least 20 minutes), and the skin may crack and become soft.

Setting Up the Pressure Cooker

Now it's time to prepare your pressure cooker. Place a trivet or steamer rack/basket inside the cooker and add water to the bottom of the pot. The amount of water you add will depend on the type of potato you're cooking and your pressure cooker model. For example, one source recommends adding 4 cups of water for halved potatoes and 2 1/2 cups for sliced potatoes, while another suggests 2 cups of water for any type of potato.

Cooking the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in the pressure cooker, ensuring they are in a single layer. Secure the lid, set it to a "sealing" position, and turn the heat to high. The time it takes for your pressure cooker to reach full pressure will depend on the type of cooker you have. Stovetop pressure cookers can reach 15 PSI, while electric ones like the Instant Pot reach 12 PSI. On average, it takes about 10 minutes for the pot to come up to pressure.

Once your cooker reaches full pressure, start timing the cook. For whole potatoes, cook for 15 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure. Halved potatoes should cook for 8 minutes at 15 pounds of pressure, and sliced potatoes for 2 1/2 minutes at 15 pounds of pressure.

When the timer goes off, remove the pressure cooker from the heat and immediately place it under cold water to bring the pressure down. Then, drain and serve your potatoes!

How to set up a pressure cooker for steaming potatoes

To set up a pressure cooker for steaming potatoes, start by giving your potatoes a good scrub to remove any dirt. You can peel the potatoes or leave the skin on, but if you're going to peel them, it's easier to do so after they've been cooked.

Next, pour water into the bottom of your pressure cooker. The amount of water you need will depend on the size of your cooker and the number of potatoes you're cooking. As a general rule, you'll want enough water to cover the bottom of the pot, but not so much that it touches the potatoes. A cup or two of water should be plenty.

Now, it's time to prepare the potatoes. For even cooking, it's important that the potatoes are all roughly the same size. Cut them into 1-inch to 1 1/2-inch pieces. If you're cooking baby potatoes, you can leave them whole.

Place a trivet or steamer basket into the pressure cooker, and put the potatoes on top. Make sure they're in a single layer and not overcrowded. Close the lid, ensuring the venting knob is closed, and set the cooker to high pressure. The cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes, but generally, it will be somewhere between 8 and 20 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure. Some recipes recommend a quick release, while others suggest a natural release for 10 minutes followed by a manual release of the remaining pressure. Check your potatoes for doneness. They should be fork-tender. If they need a little longer, simply close the lid and cook for a few minutes more.

When your potatoes are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the pressure cooker and enjoy!

How to release pressure after steaming potatoes

After steaming potatoes in a pressure cooker, there are several methods to release the pressure. The best method for you will depend on how much time you have and the texture you want your potatoes to have. Here are some options:

Quick Pressure Release

The quick-release option is a good choice when you need to get your meal on the table quickly. When your potatoes are done cooking, hit the "cancel" button, then move the valve to "venting." This method takes about two to three minutes. Be sure not to use cold water to stop the pressure cooker, as this may damage it.

Natural Pressure Release

The natural-release method takes more time, from 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the meal. With this method, you slowly let the pressure on the pot decrease until you're ready to serve. You can wait until the pressure naturally lowers and the lid-lock disengages, or you can wait 10 minutes and then open the valve for a slightly faster release. This method is good for allowing meat to tenderize and grains to cook thoroughly.

Intermittent Pressure Release

The intermittent pressure release method combines the benefits of the natural and quick-release methods. To do this, toggle the pressure release valve between open and closed several times, allowing pressure to decrease naturally while also stopping foam from escaping through the valve. Check to make sure it's not still foaming before removing the lid. This method allows you to get to your food quickly while ensuring it's properly cooked and avoiding spitting or overcooking.

Slow Normal Pressure Release

This method is relatively fast, taking about five to six minutes. It involves releasing the pressure very slowly through the cooker's valve. If your valve releases pressure too quickly, you can release it in short bursts, closing the valve for 10 seconds if anything other than steam escapes. This method is good for occasions when it's not practical to wait for a full natural release or when cooking tricky foods like grains or legumes.

Normal Pressure Release

The normal pressure release method is a fast release that can take two to three minutes. It involves using the valve or pressure-releasing mechanism on your cooker to release the pressure. This method is good for quick-cooking foods and vegetables but should not be used for legume, rice, or fruit-based recipes. It can be used for meat stews where the meat is completely covered with liquid.

It's important to follow the instructions that come with your pressure cooker and to choose the right opening method to ensure your potatoes turn out as desired and to avoid damaging your cooker.

What to do with steamed potatoes

Steamed potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas on what to do with your steamed potatoes:

Make a Quick Side Dish

Toss your steamed potatoes in melted butter, add some freshly chopped herbs, and sprinkle with salt to taste. This is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy your steamed potatoes. You can also get creative with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavour combination.

Make a Hearty Main Course

Steamed potatoes can be the foundation of a more substantial dish. For example, you can make an Indian-inspired dish with steamed potatoes, such as Bombay potatoes, or a simple supper like spelt gnocchi with turnip tops and anchovy. You can also make a homity pie with leftover cheese or a hearty Alpine dish like tartiflette.

Create a Potato Salad

Steamed potatoes are perfect for potato salad. You can make a classic potato salad with mayonnaise, or get creative with different ingredients like mustard, relish, or herbs. You can also add in other vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or carrots, to make it a more colourful and nutritious dish.

Mash Them

If you're looking for a comforting side dish, mashing your steamed potatoes is a great option. Just add some milk, butter, and seasoning to taste, and you'll have delicious, creamy mashed potatoes. You can also add in other ingredients like garlic or cheese to give them an extra flavour boost.

Roast Them

For a crispy treat, try roasting your steamed potatoes. Simply toss them in olive oil, salt, and ground pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven until they're browned and crispy on the outside. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favourite flavour combination.

Make Breakfast Skillets

Steamed potatoes are a great addition to breakfast skillets. Toss them into a skillet with some onions and peppers, or brown them alongside sunny-side-up eggs. You can also use them as a base for a breakfast hash with your favourite meats and vegetables.

With these ideas, you can transform your steamed potatoes into delicious and versatile dishes that can be enjoyed any time of the day!

Frequently asked questions