There are two main types of potatoes: waxy and starchy. The primary difference lies in their starch and water content:
– Waxy potatoes: High in starch, with a soft and creamy texture. Suitable for steaming, boiling, stewing, and braising.
– Starchy potatoes: High in water content, with a firm and crispy texture. Ideal for stir-frying and making salads.
When buying potatoes, most people only pay attention to the size and overlook the variety. In reality, choosing the right type of potato for your cooking method can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your dish.
How to differentiate between waxy and starchy potatoes
Observe the shape
– Starchy potatoes are usually round, with small to medium-sized, smooth-shaped tubers.
– Waxy potatoes often have an irregular shape, tend to be dirtier, and vary significantly in size.
Examine the skin
– Starchy potatoes: The skin is smooth and shiny, with minimal tiny spots, giving it a clean appearance.
– Waxy potatoes: The skin is rough and bumpy, with numerous small spots, and tends to flake. This type of potato will become soft and crumbly when cooked.
Consider the color of the skin
– Dark-colored potatoes: These potatoes usually contain more starch and are likely to be waxy.
– Light-colored potatoes: With a higher water content, these potatoes are typically starchy.
By distinguishing between waxy and starchy potatoes as mentioned above, you can choose the right type for your cooking needs. Remember, the success of a dish often starts with selecting the right ingredients. Many people only consider the size when buying potatoes, just as they might do with cabbage or turnips, which look similar but taste very different. Starchy potatoes will never release enough liquid when braised, and waxy potatoes will stick to the pan and turn soft when stir-fried. So, to cook delicious dishes, you also need to be “smart” when shopping for ingredients!
How to choose fresh and tasty potatoes
– Select potatoes with dry, taut, and plump skins. Avoid shriveled or flattened potatoes, as they have likely been stored for a long time and lost water and nutrients.
– It’s normal for potatoes to have a few black spots, so you can still buy them. However, if you notice any sprouting, deep bruises, or discoloration, it’s best to avoid them as they may have produced solanine, which is harmful to your health.
Spicy and crispy potato salad suggestion
Instructions:
Wash the potatoes, peel them, and cut them into thin slices, then cut into thin strips. Soak them in clean water to remove excess starch. Cut the green/red bell peppers into thin strips and mince the garlic.
Check out this guide on how to peel potatoes without a peeler.
Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the potatoes and bell peppers, and blanch for 10 seconds. Then, remove them and plunge into cold water to retain their crispness.
To make the sauce: Heat oil in a pan, add the garlic, chili powder, and white sesame, stirring until fragrant. Then, add white vinegar, sugar, salt, and seasoning to taste.
Drain the potatoes and put them in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over them and mix well. Your spicy and crispy potato salad is ready to be served!
The Ultimate Guide to Identifying 12 Potato Varieties in Vietnam
Potatoes are a familiar staple for most Vietnamese, with a wide variety of types such as the sweet potato and taro. However, not everyone can differentiate between these different types of potatoes as they often look very similar on the outside.
