How to Cook Small Potatoes on the Grill
Grilling small potatoes is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a new side dish, grilled potatoes can be a flavorful addition to any meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook small potatoes on the grill.
1. Choose the Right Potatoes: When grilling small potatoes, it’s best to choose varieties that are waxy and firm, such as fingerling or baby potatoes. These types of potatoes hold their shape well during cooking and have a creamy texture.
2. Clean and Prep the Potatoes: Before grilling, make sure to clean the potatoes thoroughly by scrubbing them under cold water. Remove any dirt or debris. If desired, you can also peel the potatoes, although leaving the skins on adds a nice texture and flavor.
3. Parboil the Potatoes: To ensure even cooking, it’s recommended to parboil the small potatoes before grilling. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly tender. Drain the potatoes and let them cool.
4. Season the Potatoes: Once the potatoes have cooled, you can season them with your favorite herbs and spices. Popular options include garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika, or a combination of these. Toss the potatoes in the seasoning mixture until they are well coated.
5. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly greased to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
6. Grill the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a spatula or tongs to prevent them from falling through the grates.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot. Grilled small potatoes make a great side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
How Long Does it Take for Potatoes to be Done on the Grill?
The time it takes for potatoes to be done on the grill can vary depending on their size and the temperature of the grill. In general, small potatoes will take about 15-20 minutes to cook on a medium-high heat grill. However, it’s important to check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. They should be tender and easily pierced. If they are still firm, continue grilling for a few more minutes until they are fully cooked.
Should You Boil Baby Potatoes Before Grilling?
Boiling baby potatoes before grilling is a recommended step to ensure that they are fully cooked and tender on the inside while being crispy on the outside. Parboiling the potatoes helps to speed up the cooking process on the grill and ensures even cooking throughout. By boiling the potatoes beforehand, you can also infuse them with flavors by adding herbs or spices to the boiling water. This extra step will result in perfectly grilled baby potatoes that are flavorful and delicious.
Do You Have to Cook Potatoes Before Grilling Them?
While it is not necessary to cook potatoes before grilling them, parboiling or pre-cooking them can help ensure that they are fully cooked and tender on the inside. Raw potatoes can take longer to cook on the grill, and there is a risk of the outside becoming burnt or charred before the inside is fully cooked. Parboiling the potatoes before grilling can help reduce the overall cooking time and ensures that the potatoes are evenly cooked. However, if you prefer a firmer texture or want to save time, you can grill raw potatoes directly on the grill. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long does it take to grill potatoes at 400?
Grilling potatoes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit typically takes about 30-40 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the potato slices or wedges. It is important to preheat the grill before placing the potatoes on it to ensure even cooking.
Do potatoes cook faster with foil on or off?
Potatoes generally cook faster without foil when grilling. Foil can trap the heat and steam, which may result in longer cooking times. However, if you prefer a softer texture or want to prevent the potatoes from drying out, you can wrap them in foil. This method will create a steaming effect, resulting in a more tender and moist potato.
Do you poke holes in potatoes when grilling?
Yes, it is recommended to poke holes in the potatoes when grilling. Poking holes allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing the potatoes from bursting. It also helps in even cooking and reduces the chances of the potatoes becoming too soft or mushy.
Do you grill potatoes over direct heat?
When grilling potatoes, it is best to cook them over indirect heat rather than placing them directly over the flames. Direct heat can cause the potatoes to burn or cook unevenly. To achieve this, you can set up a two-zone fire on your grill. Place the potatoes on the cooler side of the grill and close the lid to allow them to cook through while getting a nice smoky flavor. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side and place the potatoes on the opposite side. For a gas grill, preheat all burners and then turn off one side to create indirect heat.
Can you overcook potatoes on grill?
Yes, it is possible to overcook potatoes on the grill. When potatoes are cooked for too long, they can become mushy and lose their texture. It is important to monitor the cooking time and temperature to ensure that the potatoes are cooked to perfection.
Why do you rub potatoes on the grill?
Rubbing potatoes on the grill helps to create a crispy skin and adds flavor to the potatoes. The friction from rubbing the potatoes on the grill grates helps to remove any dirt or debris from the skin. Additionally, the heat from the grill helps to cook the potatoes evenly.
How long does it take to bake a potato on a grill at 350 degrees?
The cooking time for baking a potato on a grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit can vary depending on the size of the potato. Generally, it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour for a large potato to cook through. It is important to check the doneness of the potato by inserting a fork or knife into the center. If it goes in easily and the potato feels soft, it is done.
How do you know when potatoes are done?
There are several ways to determine if potatoes are done cooking. One method is to insert a fork or knife into the center of the potato. If it goes in easily and the potato feels soft, it is done. Another way is to gently squeeze the potato. If it gives a little when squeezed, it is likely cooked through. Additionally, the skin of the potato should be crispy and golden brown when it is done cooking.
Summary
Grilling potatoes can result in delicious and flavorful dishes, but it is important to avoid overcooking them. Rubbing potatoes on the grill helps to create a crispy skin and enhance the taste. The cooking time for baking potatoes on a grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the size. To determine if potatoes are done, check for a soft texture, easy insertion of a fork or knife, and a crispy golden brown skin.
