Why Do Potatoes Take so Long to Boil? The Shocking Answer Will Change How You Cook!

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:54:48 +0000

Why Do Potatoes Take So Long to Boil? The Shocking Answer Will Change How You Cook Boiling potatoes feels slower than you’d expect—but have you ever wondered why they take so long to cook? It’s not just patience required; the science behind starchy tubers is fascinating. Understanding this hidden truth will transform your kitchen approach and ensure perfectly tender potatoes every time. ### The Science of Potato Cooking: Why It Takes So Long Potatoes are packed with starch, primarily in the form of amylose and amylopectin. When submerged in boiling water, these starches begin to absorb moisture and swell—a process called gelatinization. Because potatoes are dense and large, heat penetration through the skin and flesh takes time. Unlike small items like beans or pasta, thick potato chunks can take 20–45 minutes to fully cook, depending on size and thickness.