Should I Boil Potatoes Before Grilling?

Grilling season is upon us, and if you’re like me, you’re probably already dreaming of all the delicious food you’re going to cook outdoors. One of my favorite things to grill is potatoes, but I always wonder if I should boil them first.

There are a few reasons why you might want to boil potatoes before grilling them. First, boiling helps to cook the potatoes through evenly. This is especially important for larger potatoes, which can take a long time to cook through on the grill. Second, boiling helps to remove some of the starch from the potatoes, which can make them less sticky and more crispy when grilled. Finally, boiling can help to infuse the potatoes with flavor, as you can add herbs and spices to the boiling water.

However, there are also some downsides to boiling potatoes before grilling them. First, it can add time to your cooking process. Second, boiling can make the potatoes more watery, which can make them less flavorful. Finally, boiling can remove some of the nutrients from the potatoes.

So, should you boil potatoes before grilling them? Ultimately, the decision is up to you. If you’re looking for evenly cooked, crispy potatoes with a lot of flavor, then boiling them first is a good option. However, if you’re short on time or you’re looking for potatoes with a more rustic flavor, then you can skip the boiling step.

Here are a few tips for grilling potatoes, whether you boil them first or not:

• Use a grill brush to clean the grill grates before grilling. This will help to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
• Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.
• Toss the potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper before grilling. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
• Grill the potatoes over medium heat, turning them occasionally, until they are tender and browned.
• Serve the potatoes immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I boil potatoes in the microwave?

Yes, you can boil potatoes in the microwave. Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with 1/2 inch of water. Microwave on high for 5-7 minutes per potato, or until the potatoes are tender.

2. How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?

The potatoes are done boiling when they are tender when pierced with a fork.

3. Can I grill potatoes without boiling them first?

Yes, you can grill potatoes without boiling them first. However, the potatoes will take longer to cook and may not be as evenly cooked.

4. What are some good dipping sauces for grilled potatoes?

Some good dipping sauces for grilled potatoes include ranch dressing, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or sour cream.

5. Can I grill potatoes in foil?

Yes, you can grill potatoes in foil. This will help to keep the potatoes moist and prevent them from burning.