The best potatoes for peeling depend on the type of dish you’re preparing and your personal preferences. Here are a few popular potato varieties that are commonly used when peeling is required:
- Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are one of the most popular choices for peeling. They have a high starch content, which makes them ideal for making fluffy mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, and French fries. Their thick skin peels easily, and the flesh is mealy and absorbent, perfect for absorbing butter and cream.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have thin, smooth, and golden-yellow skin. They have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. These are great for mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or any recipe where you want a creamier texture.
- Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are known for their waxy texture and thin red skin. They are excellent for dishes like potato salad, roasted potatoes, and boiled potatoes. You can peel them if desired, but their skin is thin and often left on for added color and flavor.
- White Potatoes: White potatoes, like the Eastern White or Kennebec varieties, have a thin, light-colored skin. They are versatile and can be used for a wide range of recipes, from mashed potatoes to roasted potatoes. You can peel them for a smoother texture.
- Fingerling Potatoes: Fingerling potatoes come in various colors and shapes, including red, yellow, and purple. They have a waxy texture and are great for roasting, boiling, or even making potato salads. Their thin skin is typically left on for added visual appeal and texture.
Ultimately, the choice of the best peeled potatoes depends on the specific dish you’re preparing and your flavor and texture preferences. For creamy and fluffy dishes, russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices, while waxy varieties like red or white potatoes are better for recipes where you want the potatoes to hold their shape.
