Don’t Just Boil Potatoes in Water — Here’s How to Unlock Incredible Flavor Instead

Boiling potatoes in plain water has been the go-to method for generations. It's easy, familiar, and gets the job done — but it also strips away the natural flavor of your spuds, leaving them bland and one-dimensional. If you've ever felt your mashed potatoes, roasted sides, or potato salad lacked that "wow" factor, the way you're boiling them could be the reason.

But here's the good news: with one small change, you can infuse your potatoes with deep, savory flavor before you even reach for the butter or seasoning. Whether you're cooking for a holiday table or a weeknight dinner, this technique is a total game-changer.

Flavor-Boosted Potato Boiling Method

Ingredients:

2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best)

1½ cups vegetable or chicken broth

1½ cups water (optional, just enough to cover the potatoes)

1 tablespoon salt

2 garlic cloves, smashed

1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional for richness)

Instructions:

Prep the Potatoes:

Wash the potatoes well. Peel them if you prefer, or leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients. Cut into uniform chunks to ensure even cooking.

Flavor the Water:

In a large pot, combine broth and water in a 50/50 ratio. Add salt, smashed garlic cloves, and your chosen herb sprig. This seasoned liquid will seep into the potatoes as they cook, building flavor from the inside out.

Cook Gently:

Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.

Drain (But Save the Gold):

Drain the potatoes, reserving a few tablespoons of the cooking liquid. This flavorful broth can be used to mash the potatoes or add moisture later.

Finish Your Dish: