Essential Tools for Slicing Potatoes
Happy National Potato Day! To celebrate, here is our guide to slicing potatoes so you never run out of potato dishes!
Choosing the Right Knife
A sharp kitchen knife is your best friend when it comes to slicing potatoes. Whether you're cutting cubes, wedges, or thin slices, a well-maintained chef's knife or paring knife will do the job. A sharp blade ensures clean cuts without crushing the potato, making your prep work easier and more efficient. Always keep your knives sharp to avoid accidents.
Using a Potato Peeler
A potato peeler is a handy tool for quickly removing the skin from potatoes. Its sharp edge glides just under the skin, peeling it away without wasting the good part of the potato. This is useful when you need to peel a lot of potatoes or want a smooth finish for your dish. A good peeler makes the task quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.
Mandolin Slicer for Precision
For perfectly even slices, a mandolin slicer is the way to go. This tool allows you to cut potatoes into uniform slices, which is great for dishes like potato gratin or homemade chips. The mandolin slicer offers precision and speed, but does come with a bit more risk. Just remember to use the hand guard to protect your fingers from the sharp blade.
Step-by-Step Guide to Slicing Potatoes
Creating a Stable Base
To start, lay the potato on its side and slice off one edge. This creates a flat surface, making it easier and safer to cut. Potatoes tend to roll, so having a stable base is important for even cutting and safety.
Making Even Slices
Once you have a flat base, rotate the potato so it rests on the flat side. Carefully slice the potato into even pieces. Consistency is key here; try to make each slice the same thickness. This ensures that all pieces cook evenly.
Handling Edge Pieces
When you get to the edge pieces, place them flat side down before slicing. The curved sides can be tricky, so always work with the flat side to keep your cuts steady. If you don't need the slices right away, store them in a bowl of water in the fridge to keep them fresh and prevent them from going bad.
Safety Tips for Slicing Potatoes
Maintaining a Sharp Knife
Always use a sharp knife when slicing potatoes. A dull blade requires more force, which can lead to slipping and accidents. Regularly sharpen your knives to ensure they cut cleanly and easily through the potatoes. We recommend the SolBlade Origin Series collection of kitchen knives. SolBlade knives are made with premium Japanese Damascus steel, giving them superior edge retention and sharpness that will last over time. You won't have to worry about your knife going dull from the rigors of a busy kitchen.
Using a Non-Slip Cutting Board
A non-slip cutting board is essential for safe slicing. It keeps the potato steady and prevents the board from moving around. You can place a damp cloth under the board to keep it from sliding if it doesn't have non-slip grips.
Proper Hand Positioning
Keep your fingers tucked away while slicing to avoid cuts. Hold the potato with a claw grip, where your fingers are curled under and your knuckles guide the knife. This way, you can slice safely and efficiently.
Advanced Techniques for Potato Preparation
Julienne and Matchstick Cuts
Mastering julienne and matchstick cuts helps give you more of a variety of culinary possibilities. These thin, uniform strips are perfect for stir-fries or garnishes. Start by slicing the potato into even planks, then stack and cut them into matchsticks. Consistency is key to ensure even cooking.
Dicing for Soups and Salads
Dicing potatoes into small, even cubes works great for breakfast potatoes. Begin by cutting the potato into slices, then into strips, and finally into cubes. This method ensures that each piece cooks at the same rate, providing a uniform texture in your dish.
Preparing Potatoes for Frying
For perfect fries, cut the potatoes into even sticks. Soak them in cold water to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispy exterior. Dry them thoroughly before frying to keep them from splattering. Whether you prefer thick-cut or shoestring fries, uniformity in size ensures they cook evenly.
