You’ve probably been boiling potatoes the same way for years:

Drop them in a pot of water.
Wait.
Drain.
Mash (or roast).

But what if that method is washing away flavor, texture, and potential?

Here’s the truth:
👉 Plain water does nothing for your potatoes — and worse, it can leach out nutrients and taste.

The good news?
There’s a simple, chef-approved alternative that transforms your potatoes from bland to rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful — without adding extra calories.

Let’s explore why boiling in water is outdated — and what to do instead.

❌ The Problem with Boiling Potatoes in Plain Water

✅ If you’re dumping the water after boiling, you’re literally pouring flavor down the drain.

✅ The Better Way: Cook Potatoes in Flavorful Liquid

Instead of plain water, simmer your potatoes in a seasoned cooking liquid — so they absorb aroma, salt, and richness from the inside out.

This simple switch makes a huge difference in dishes like:

• Mashed potatoes
• Potato salad
• Roasted potatoes
• Hash browns

No more bland, boiled spuds — just tender, flavorful potatoes every time.

🔁 The Flavorful Alternative: Cook Potatoes in Broth, Milk, or Cream

1. Use Broth or Stock (Best for Savory Dishes)

• Replace water with chicken, vegetable, or beef broth
• Add garlic, bay leaf, or herbs (rosemary, thyme)
• Simmer until tender

✅ Result: Potatoes with deep, savory flavor — perfect for mashing or roasting.

2. Use Milk or Cream (Best for Mashed Potatoes)

• Simmer potatoes in milk, half-and-half, or cream instead of water
• Add butter and garlic for extra richness
• Mash right in the pot

✅ Result: Creamier, silkier mashed potatoes — with less added butter or cream afterward.

🧈 Pro Tip: Warm the milk first to prevent potatoes from cooling and absorbing liquid unevenly.

3. Use Salted Water with Aromatics (Simple Upgrade)

If you must use water, make it count:

• Add 1–2 tsp salt per quart (seasons from within)
• Toss in garlic cloves, onion, bay leaf, or peppercorns
• Simmer, then drain and use as usual

✅ Still better than plain water — and easy to adopt today.

🧑‍🍳 How to Upgrade Your Potato Game: Step-by-Step