Yes, you can absolutely boil potatoes in a slow cooker! Slow cookers, also known as crock-pots, are versatile kitchen appliances that can be used for various cooking methods, including boiling. Here's a simple guide on how to do it:
Wash and peel the potatoes (optional). If you prefer to leave the skin on, make sure to scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt.
Cut the potatoes into evenly-sized chunks. This will help ensure they cook uniformly.
Place the potato chunks in the slow cooker.
Add enough water to cover the potatoes. You don't need to add a lot of water; just enough to cover the potatoes will do.
Set the slow cooker to the desired temperature. For boiling potatoes, you can typically use the "High" setting for faster cooking or the "Low" setting for a slower, gentler boil.
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let the potatoes cook for the specified time. The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the potato chunks and the slow cooker's heat settings. It usually takes around 3-4 hours on the "High" setting and 6-8 hours on the "Low" setting.
Check the potatoes for doneness. Use a fork to poke them; they should be soft and easily pierced.
Once the potatoes are cooked, you can drain the water and use the boiled potatoes as desired. You can mash them, add them to soups or stews, or use them in various recipes.
Boiling potatoes in a slow cooker can be a convenient way to prepare them, especially if you want to free up stove space or don't want to watch over them constantly. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the potatoes.