Have you ever cooked potatoes that turned to mush? Do you want it to keep its shape and stay firm?
Why do potatoes often fall apart?
Cooking potatoes may seem simple, but many people face the problem of potatoes after cooking it loses its shape and becomes mushy. The reason for this lies in chemical composition of potatoes, because in contact with water, starch is released and consequently causes the potatoes to begin to fall apart.
A simple trick to keep potatoes in shape
For those who love potatoes in salads, side dishes or as a main course, there is simple technique, which will help the potatoes to keep a firm structure.
Vinegar
The key ingredient to add to water is vinegar. It helps the potato to keep its shape and not fall apart, as its acidity affects the strength of the potato membrane.
The process of cooking potatoes with vinegar
When you decide to cook potatoes in this way, it is important to follow a few simple steps:
1. Choose first the right type of potato. Varieties with less starch are best suited for cooking.
2. Cut the potatoes into equal-sized pieces so that they cook evenly.
3. Add the potatoes to the pot of water and start cooking them.
4. After about 13 minutes of cooking, add a small amount of vinegar into the water. You can use wine, apple or alcohol vinegar - the choice is yours.
5. Cook for a further 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fully cooked but still firm to the touch.
The benefits of vinegar when cooking potatoes
Vinegar has several benefits that can be used when cooking potatoes. The acid in the vinegar affects the membranes of the potato cells, which strengthens them and helps the potatoes not become mushy. Potatoes prepared in this way will be ideal for potato salads and side dishes, where a firm texture is crucial.
Which vinegar to choose?
For this cooking method you can use wine, apple or alcohol vinegar. They all have a similar effect, the key being that they contain acid. The choice between them depends mainly on your personal preferences or what you have in the kitchen.
