Delightfully Salty: Instant Pot Salt Potatoes from Syracuse

If you’re craving a taste of Syracuse, New York, look no further than these mouthwatering Instant Pot Salt Potatoes! A beloved Central New York delicacy, Salt Potatoes are a simple yet irresistibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few basic ingredients and the magic of your Instant Pot, you can enjoy tender, creamy potatoes infused with the salty goodness that Syracuse is famous for. Join us as we dive into this iconic recipe, complete with step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and keto-friendly variations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Salt Potatoes? A: Salt Potatoes are a traditional dish from Syracuse, New York, made by boiling small potatoes in heavily salted water until tender. The result is creamy, flavorful potatoes with a unique salty crust.

Q: Why are Salt Potatoes so salty? A: Salt Potatoes get their intense saltiness from the large amount of salt added to the cooking water. The high salt concentration creates a brine that penetrates the potatoes, seasoning them from the inside out.

Q: Can I use any type of potato for Salt Potatoes? A: While traditional Salt Potatoes are made with small, waxy potatoes such as new potatoes or fingerlings, you can use any variety of potatoes you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size of the potatoes.

Q: Are Salt Potatoes keto-friendly? A: Salt Potatoes can be made keto-friendly by using low-carb potatoes such as cauliflower or turnips instead of traditional potatoes. You can also reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe to fit your dietary needs.

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:

Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse the mini potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. If desired, you can peel the potatoes, but it’s not necessary.

Boil the Water: In the Instant Pot, add 12–15 cups of water, or enough to cover the potatoes completely. Stir in 1 cup of fine grain salt until dissolved.
Add the Potatoes: Carefully add the potatoes to the Instant Pot, making sure they are submerged in the saltwater mixture.
Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook the potatoes on high pressure for 8 minutes.

Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
Drain the Potatoes: Using a slotted spoon or colander, remove the potatoes from the Instant Pot and drain off any excess water.
Serve: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a serving platter or bowl. Drizzle with melted butter or olive oil, and season with kosher salt, fresh parsley, and pepper to taste.

Enjoy: Serve the Salt Potatoes hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main course. These savory potatoes are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Add Flavor: Enhance the flavor of your Salt Potatoes by adding minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Buttery Goodness: For an extra indulgent touch, use melted butter instead of olive oil to drizzle over the cooked potatoes. The rich, creamy butter pairs perfectly with the salty potatoes.

Spice it Up: Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of your Salt Potatoes. Try adding smoked paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder for a unique twist.
Make it Keto: To make keto-friendly Salt Potatoes, substitute cauliflower or turnips for the potatoes. Follow the same cooking method, adjusting the cooking time as needed for the alternative vegetables.

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Syracuse, New York, with this irresistible Instant Pot Salt Potatoes recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned potato enthusiast or trying Salt Potatoes for the first time, this simple yet satisfying dish is sure to become a new favorite. With its perfect balance of saltiness, creaminess, and buttery goodness, Salt Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that’s guaranteed to leave you craving more. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to savor the classic flavors of Syracuse with every bite!