That’s another viral cooking clickbait hook, not a real rule you need to follow.
🥔 What it’s actually about
This type of post is usually trying to push a “grandma secret” like:
- roasting potatoes instead of boiling
- steaming instead of boiling
- or adding milk/butter early
But the claim “STOP boiling potatoes in water” is overstated.
🧑🍳 The truth about boiling potatoes
Boiling potatoes in water is:
- completely normal
- widely used in professional kitchens
- a standard method for mashed potatoes
It works because it:
- cooks potatoes evenly
- softens starch for mash
- is simple and reliable
💡 When alternatives can be better
Some chefs prefer other methods because:
1. Steaming
- Less water absorption
- Slightly fluffier mash
2. Baking (oven potatoes)
- More intense potato flavor
- Drier texture (good for very fluffy mash)
But these are preferences, not rules.
🧈 What actually makes good mashed potatoes
The real factors are:
- using starchy potatoes
- not over-mixing (prevents gluey texture)
- adding warm butter/milk gradually
- seasoning properly
🚫 Why posts like this go viral
- “grandma laughed at me” = emotional hook
- “stop doing this!” = shock factor
- implies a secret trick that’s actually just a variation
✅ Bottom line
Boiling potatoes in water is not wrong—it’s one of the most standard and reliable methods. The “don’t boil them” claim is just storytelling for engagement.
If you want, I can give you the perfect mashed potato method used in restaurants (creamy but never gluey).
