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Syracuse Salt Potatoes Recipe

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Syracuse Salt Potatoes are a classic dish from Upstate New York featuring small new potatoes boiled in heavy saltwater, which creates a unique salty crust on the skin. Served with rich garlic butter, they make a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for gatherings or a comforting snack.

Ingredients

Potatoes and Boiling Liquid

  • 3 pounds small new potatoes (white or red, about 1 inch in diameter)
  • 1/2 cup fine sea salt
  • 3 quarts water

Garlic Butter

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick / 113 g) salted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, pressed or grated
  • Freshly-cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the water: In a large stockpot, bring 3 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Stir in 1/2 cup of fine sea salt until completely dissolved, creating the intensely salty brine essential for the signature crust.
  2. Cook the potatoes: Carefully add the small new potatoes to the boiling salted water. Boil uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, ensuring they are fully cooked but still hold their shape.
  3. Drain and dry: Transfer the potatoes to a colander and let them drain for 2 to 3 minutes without rinsing. As they steam-dry, a light salty crust will naturally form on their skins, delivering the dish’s distinctive flavor and texture.
  4. Make the garlic butter: While the potatoes cook, melt the salted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the pressed or grated garlic and freshly cracked black pepper if using. Cook gently for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to brown the garlic to preserve a fresh flavor.
  5. Serve: Arrange the hot salt potatoes in a serving bowl. Serve the melted garlic butter on the side for drizzling or dipping, allowing guests to customize their seasoning preferences.

Notes

  • If using kosher salt instead of fine sea salt, use slightly more as kosher salt crystals are larger and less dense.
  • Do not rinse the potatoes after boiling to maintain the salty crust on the skins.
  • The garlic butter can be prepared ahead and kept warm until serving.
  • New potatoes are preferable for their thin skins and tender texture.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/syracuse-salt-potatoes-recipe/