The best potatoes for potato salad

when you know what best potatoes for potato salad son, you're going to be crowned king or queen of this year's barbecue season.

And spoiler alert: it's waxy!

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Potato salad is a staple at every backyard party, but it's all too easy to get confused with this simple side.

The primordial cult? Using the wrong kind of potatoes.

Unfortunately, you can't use just any potato you have in the fridge or pantry because not all are created equal.

But stop worrying, I'm here to explain everything to you. So read on to find out the best potatoes for potato salad.

What are the best potatoes for potato salad?

Did you know that there are more than four thousand varieties of potatoes on earth? That's a lot of potatoes!

But the good news is that you can narrow them down to 3 categories. From there, it's easy to choose the right type for potato salad.

And if you're in a hurry, here's the answer:

The best potatoes for potato salad are waxy ones, such as new potatoes, French fingerlings, and Red Bliss. They have lower starch content but higher moisture content. This means that they cook well without losing their shape. In addition to this, their skin is so fine and soft that it is not necessary to peel it.

Now, let's delve into the 3 varieties of potatoes and discuss how and when they should be used.

1. Waxy potatoes

Fingerling, red, and new potatoes are almost always used for potato salad because, as mentioned, they have a lower starch content than other varieties.

And since they're high in sugar and water, they hold their shape really well after spinning in boiling water, giving you a more tender firm bite.

Also, the skin of waxy potatoes is thin, so they don't need to be peeled before cooking. That will save you a ton of prep time!

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2. Starchy potatoes

Also known as “mealy” potatoes, starchy potatoes have a higher starch content than other varieties (but you probably already guessed that!).

Varieties include Russet and Idaho, and they are easy to spot because of the long oval shape with smooth, light-colored skin.

They are drier and flakier than others, making them ideal for baking and frying.

However, their low moisture content means that they will usually break down when cooked. This makes them perfect for fluffy mashed potatoes.

However, for potato salad, expect a butterier dish with less definition in the potatoes because they will soak up the dressing and break down when mixed.

So if you want potato chunks with a good bite, skip this variety.

3. All Purpose Potatoes

All-purpose potatoes are just what they sound like: potatoes that can be used for just about any dish.

Varieties include Yukon Gold and Purple Majesty, and are known to fall in the middle when it comes to starch and moisture content.

So whether you want to make a hearty stew or a simple baked potato, these potatoes are up to the task.

They are fairly neutral in flavor, so they won't overwhelm other ingredients. The best thing is that they are widely free and very accessible.

How to Choose the Best Potatoes for Potato Salad

So we've already decided that waxy potatoes are best for potato salad. But how do you choose the right one when there are so many?

It's simple, really. Just follow the steps now!

Look for potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. You want clean, soft potatoes no matter what dish you're making.

Pay attention to the skin and try to locate potatoes with as few blemishes as possible. Some potatoes have thin skins that bruise easily, while others have thick, rough skins that can take a bit more wear and tear.

Take the smell test. If they smell earthy, that means they're freshly picked. If not, they've possibly been sitting around for a while.

• You can also tell what kind of potato it is based on its fragrance!
• Waxy potatoes have a milder fragrance, while starchy potatoes can smell earthy or nutty.

Give them a squeeze. They must be firm to the touch, without yielding.

Please check the size and shape. If you're looking for bite-size pieces, choose small, round potatoes. Opt for larger, elongated potatoes, such as fingerlings, if you want something more succulent.

Tip: Waxy potatoes tend to be smaller and more uniform in shape, while starchy potatoes can vary a lot in size and shape.

How to store potatoes

Store potatoes in a cool, dark place with good ventilation, such as a pantry, cupboard, or closet.

It is better to store them in a paper or canvas bag than a plastic one. This will allow them to breathe and prevent them from getting soaked.

Lastly, be sure to check your potatoes on a regular basis and discard any that have sprouted or look wrinkled and dry.

The Best Potato Salad Recipes to Try

Amish Potato Salad
Paula Deen Potato Salad
Ina Garten's Potato Salad
Hellmann's Potato Salad