Instant Pot Salt Potatoes

Unlock the Flavorful Delight of Instant Pot Salt Potatoes

Experience the culinary magic of Instant Pot Salt Potatoes – a dish that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor. Originating from the salty shores of Syracuse, New York, this recipe features mini potatoes cooked to perfection in a brine of salt-infused water. The result? Creamy, tender potatoes with a delicate salty crust that will tantalize your taste buds. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from gathering ingredients to serving up a dish that will leave your guests craving more. Get ready to elevate your potato game and impress your friends and family with this irresistible recipe!

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 pounds mini potatoes
  • 1 cup fine grain salt
  • 12–15 cups water to cover potatoes
  • 1/2 cup butter or olive oil
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing the mini potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Leave the skins on for added texture and flavor.
  2. Brine the Potatoes: In the Instant Pot, combine the fine grain salt with enough water to cover the potatoes completely. Stir until the salt is dissolved. Add the potatoes to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  3. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the vent to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 5 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
  4. Drain the Potatoes: Using a slotted spoon or colander, carefully remove the potatoes from the brine and transfer them to a serving dish. Discard the saltwater brine.
  5. Season the Potatoes: While the potatoes are still hot, drizzle them with melted butter or olive oil. Season with kosher salt, freshly ground pepper, and chopped fresh parsley to taste. Toss gently to coat the potatoes evenly.
  6. Serve: Arrange the Instant Pot Salt Potatoes on a platter and garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot as a delightful side dish or appetizer.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Salt Quantity: The amount of salt used in this recipe may seem excessive, but it’s essential for achieving the signature salty crust that gives Salt Potatoes their unique flavor. Don’t worry – the potatoes themselves will not taste overly salty.
  • Potato Varieties: While mini potatoes are traditional for this recipe, you can also use larger potatoes cut into smaller pieces. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well and offer a creamy texture.
  • Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the potatoes by adding fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or dill to the saltwater brine before cooking. The herbs will infuse the potatoes with aromatic goodness.
  • Garlic Butter: Elevate the flavor profile by substituting garlic-infused butter for regular butter. Simply melt the butter with minced garlic in a saucepan over low heat before drizzling it over the cooked potatoes.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those adhering to a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can modify Instant Pot Salt Potatoes:

  • Keto Version: Replace the mini potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Follow the same instructions for brining and pressure cooking, adjusting the cooking time as needed for the cauliflower. Season with keto-friendly butter or olive oil and fresh herbs.
  • Low-Carb Version: Similar to the keto version, substitute cauliflower for the potatoes and use low-carb butter or olive oil for seasoning. Ensure the cauliflower is fully cooked but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why use such a large quantity of salt in the brine? A: The high concentration of salt in the brine helps to create a salty crust on the exterior of the potatoes while allowing them to cook evenly and absorb just the right amount of saltiness.

Q: Can I reuse the saltwater brine for future batches of potatoes? A: Yes, you can reuse the saltwater brine for multiple batches of potatoes. Simply store the cooled brine in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it within a week. You may need to adjust the salt quantity slightly for subsequent batches.

Q: Can I add other seasonings to the potatoes? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs to customize the flavor of the potatoes to your liking.

Instant Pot Salt Potatoes are a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor that will elevate any meal. With their tender texture, delicate salty crust, and vibrant herbaceousness, these potatoes are a true culinary delight. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

So, embrace the art of simplicity and savor the deliciousness of Instant Pot Salt Potatoes. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Enjoy every savory bite!