How To Peel Potato, The Right Way
Peeling potatoes is often seen as one of the most tedious kitchen tasks, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or gearing up for a big family feast, knowing how to peel potatoes efficiently can save you a lot of time and effort. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of techniques, tools, and tips to make peeling potatoes faster and more enjoyable.
Why Efficient Potato Peeling Matters
Before diving into the techniques, it’s essential to understand why mastering this skill is important. Potatoes are a staple in many households, featured in dishes ranging from mashed potatoes to fries, soups, and stews. With the frequency of their use, learning to peel potatoes quickly can significantly reduce prep time in the kitchen, allowing you to focus on cooking and enjoying the meal rather than on mundane tasks.
Tools
1. The Right Peeler
The type of peeler you use can make a world of difference. There are several types of peelers available, but the two most common are the swivel peeler and the Y-shaped peeler.
- Swivel Peeler: This peeler features a straight blade that swivels as you peel, making it excellent for navigating the curves and crevices of the potato. It’s a versatile tool that many home cooks prefer for its ease of use and effectiveness on a wide range of vegetables.
- Y-Shaped Peeler: As the name suggests, this peeler is shaped like a ‘Y’. It’s perfect for straight peeling motions and is often faster for large quantities of potatoes. It provides a steady grip and is favored by many professional chefs.
2. Serrated Peeler
For those who struggle with smooth peelers, a serrated peeler can be a game-changer. It grips the potato skin better, reducing the chances of slipping, and works exceptionally well with older or more irregularly shaped potatoes.
3. Paring Knife
While not as fast as peelers, a paring knife is excellent for peeling small potatoes or for cooks who prefer a more comfortable knife experience. It also comes in handy for removing blemishes and around the eyes after peeling.
Techniques to Peel Potatoes Quickly
1. Blanching Method
One of the quickest methods for peeling a large batch of potatoes is the blanching method. Here’s how it works:
- Boil Water: Start by boiling a large pot of water. The water should be enough to submerge the potatoes fully.
- Prepare Ice Bath: While the water is boiling, prepare a large bowl of ice water.
- Blanch the Potatoes: Drop the potatoes into the boiling water for about 45 seconds to 1 minute. You’re not cooking them, just loosening the skins.
- Ice Bath: Quickly transfer the potatoes to the ice bath to prevent further cooking.
- Peel: The skins should now slide off easily with just a little pressure. You can use your fingers or a paring knife to help remove the skin if necessary.
This method is perfect when you need to peel a large number of potatoes, as it significantly reduces peeling time.
2. Microwave Method
Another speedy method involves using a microwave:
- Pierce the Potatoes: Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Microwave: Microwave the potatoes on high for 2-3 minutes. This softens the skin without overcooking the potato.
- Peel: After microwaving, the skins will loosen, making it easier to peel them off by hand or with a peeler.
This method is handy when you’re only peeling a few potatoes and don’t want to deal with boiling water.
3. Peeling with a Drill
This technique is more unconventional but can be a lot of fun:
- Attach a Brush to the Drill: Attach a clean, soft-bristled brush or scrubber to a cordless drill.
- Scrub the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large bucket filled with water, then use a drill to scrub them. The skins will come off with the scrubbing action.
This method is ideal for new potatoes or those with very thin skins, and is particularly suitable for large batches. While it might not be suitable for all kitchens, it’s an innovative solution for those who enjoy a bit of DIY.
How to Peel Potatoes Ahead of Time
Peeling potatoes ahead of time is a great way to save prep time, especially for large meals. Here’s how to do it without ending up with brown, soggy potatoes:
Step-by-Step: How to Peel Potatoes Ahead of Time
- Peel the Potatoes
Peel your potatoes using one of the tools and techniques explained above. Remove any eyes or blemishes as well. - Place in a Bowl of Cold Water
Immediately submerge the peeled potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. This prevents oxidation, which causes the potatoes to brown. - Cover and Refrigerate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Peeled potatoes can stay fresh for up to 24 hours in this way. - Change the Water for Longer Storage (Optional)
If you need to store them longer than 24 hours, change the water every 12–24 hours to keep them fresh and avoid a musty smell. Still, it’s best to use them within 48 hours for the best texture and flavor. - Dry Before Cooking
When you’re ready to cook, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean towel to prevent excess water from affecting the recipe.
Tip:
Do not leave peeled potatoes out of water or uncovered in the fridge. Exposure to air will cause discoloration and drying.
Expert Tips for Peeling Potatoes Quickly
1. Soak Potatoes in Warm Water
Before peeling, soak your potatoes in warm water for a few minutes. This helps to soften the skin slightly, making it easier to peel. It also removes excess dirt and debris from the skin.
2. Use a Potato Ricer
If you’re making mashed potatoes, you don’t necessarily need to peel them before cooking. After boiling, you can pass the potatoes through a ricer. The skin will stay in the ricer, leaving you with smooth, skin-free mashed potatoes.
3. Peel in Strips
Instead of trying to peel the entire potato at once, focus on peeling it in strips. This technique ensures that you apply even pressure, reducing the risk of cutting too deeply into the potato or wasting too much of the flesh.
4. Keep Your Tools Sharp
A dull peeler or knife is not only frustrating but also dangerous. Ensure that you regularly sharpen your tools to maintain their optimal efficiency. A sharp blade will peel more smoothly and with less effort.
5. Hold the Potato Firmly
When peeling, hold the potato in your non-dominant hand and keep it steady. This grip provides better control and enables quicker, more precise peeling.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
1. Peeling Too Deeply
One common mistake is peeling too much of the potato, including the skin. This not only wastes food but also adds unnecessary time to the task. Practice peeling just the thin layer of skin, leaving the flesh intact.
2. Skipping the Wash
Always wash potatoes before peeling them. Dirt and debris on the skin can make peeling more difficult and can also dull your peeler. A quick rinse or scrub under running water will suffice.
3. Ignoring Potato Size and Shape
Larger potatoes with smooth, regular shapes are generally easier to peel than small, irregularly shaped ones. When possible, choose potatoes that are easier to handle and peel.
Peeling potatoes doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With the right tools, techniques, and a little practice, you can peel potatoes quickly and efficiently, leaving you more time to enjoy cooking and eating your meals. Whether you prefer the traditional method using a peeler or want to try something more innovative, such as blanching or using a drill, there’s a technique out there that can suit your needs. So, next time you’re faced with a pile of potatoes, you’ll know exactly how to tackle them in record time.
