The Great Potato Debate: To Peel or Not to Peel?

Are you team peeled or unpeeled when it comes to your potatoes? While most people prefer to peel their potatoes before cooking, studies indicate that those who skip peeling before boiling miss out on significant health benefits. Many stories circulate about Holocaust survivors who managed to withstand severe hunger in the camps, thanks to potato peels.

Potato skins are packed with precious nutrients like fiber, important vitamins, and minerals, and they are actually much healthier than the potato itself.

If we're focusing purely on health benefits, there’s no doubt you should keep those skins on while cooking. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly with water and a dedicated soap that doesn’t leave a soapy taste.

Another thing worth noting is that cooking potatoes with their skins on retains the potato's moisture, helping to keep dishes like mashed potatoes less dry. Lastly, consider the potato variety, which may influence whether you peel them. Varieties like 'Sifra' and 'Desiree' absorb more water when boiled, which means peeling after cooking is fine. In contrast, varieties like 'Rosanna' and 'Nicola' with their thin skins are best peeled before cooking.