When it comes to cooking small potatoes, roasting is one of the most popular methods, thanks to its simplicity and ability to bring out their natural sweetness and crispy texture. However, there’s a common debate in kitchens everywhere: should you soak small potatoes before roasting them? While it may seem like an extra step, soaking potatoes before roasting could actually yield better results, depending on your desired outcome. If you’re wondering do you need to soak roasted small potatoes, the answer largely depends on the texture and crispiness you want to achieve, with soaking helping to enhance both. In this article, we’ll explore whether soaking small potatoes before roasting is worth the effort and how it can impact your final dish.
Why Soak Potatoes At All?
Soaking potatoes before roasting is a technique that some cooks swear by, while others skip it altogether. The main reason for soaking potatoes is to remove excess starch from the surface of the potato. Potatoes are naturally high in starch, which can lead to a less crispy texture when roasted. By soaking them in water for a period of time, you allow the starch to leach out, which helps to improve the texture when they’re roasted.
The Benefits Of Soaking Small Potatoes
- Crispier Texture
One of the primary reasons people soak small potatoes before roasting is to achieve a crispier texture. The excess starch in the potatoes can sometimes cause them to roast unevenly or result in a softer, chewier exterior. Soaking helps to remove some of that starch, which promotes crispiness when roasted. This is especially important if you’re looking for that perfect golden, crunchy skin on your roasted potatoes.
- More Even Cooking
Soaking small potatoes can also help them cook more evenly. As potatoes soak, the moisture helps soften the outer skin, allowing the heat to penetrate the flesh more evenly when they’re roasted. Without soaking, the outer skin may crisp up too quickly while the insides remain undercooked. By soaking, the moisture helps slow down the process, resulting in a tender interior and perfectly roasted outer layer.
- Faster Roasting Time
Soaking potatoes can speed up the roasting process slightly. The water that’s absorbed into the potatoes helps them cook faster since the added moisture helps to heat the interior of the potatoes more quickly.
How To Soak Small Potatoes Before Roasting?
- Wash The Potatoes
Start by washing your small potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Since the skins are usually kept on for roasting, it’s important to clean them properly.
- Slice Or Leave The Whole
Depending on the size of the potatoes, you can either leave them whole or cut them into halves or quarters. Cutting them will reduce soaking time but can also increase the surface area that crisps up during roasting.
- Soak In Cold Water
Place the potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 30 minutes to an hour. If you’re in a hurry, even a 15-minute soak can help reduce excess starch. However, longer soaking times generally yield better results in terms of texture.
- Drain And Dry
Drain the water after soaking, then use a fresh towel or paper towel to pat the potatoes dry. It’s essential to remove any excess moisture before roasting to ensure the potatoes crisp up properly.
- Roast As Usual
Once the potatoes are soaked and dried, toss them with your desired seasonings, such as olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, or rosemary. Roast them in a preheated oven at around 400°F for 25-35 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
When To Skip Soaking Small Potatoes?
While soaking can enhance the texture and flavor of roasted potatoes, it isn’t always necessary. If you prefer a softer, more tender skin or you’re short on time, skipping the soaking step will still yield tasty results. Also, if you’re using a variety of potatoes that are naturally lower in starch, such as new potatoes or waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes, soaking may not make much of a difference. These potatoes already produce a creamier texture without the need for soaking.
Conclusion
Soaking small potatoes before roasting can lead to better results, especially if you’re looking for a crispier texture and more evenly cooked potatoes. By removing excess starch and allowing for more even cooking, soaking ensures that the outer skin crisps up while the inside stays fluffy and tender. However, if you’re short on time or prefer a softer texture, you can still enjoy roasted potatoes without the soaking step.