Potato water. Is that even a thing? Yes, it is! In fact, it can be labeled an incredible discovery because of the many ways it can be used around a home. From thickening soups and stews to its use in the garden, there is seemingly no end to the creative ways you can apply potato water. Read on for the proper way to save and use potato water and most importantly, why you should.
Just as its name hints at, potato water is simply water left over from boiling potatoes. This water is starchy and has a consistency like milk or water mixed with flour.
Like pasta water, you don’t want to drain this out because they can be applied in different recipes, are nutritious and even better, can be used outside of the kitchen.
Below, is a compilation of the many benefits of potato water:
When you boil potatoes, do you pour the cloudy water straight down the drain? If so, you’re missing out on one of the most underrated kitchen helpers—potato water! Far from being waste, this starchy liquid is packed with nutrients and has a surprising number of uses in cooking, baking, and even around the house.
What Exactly Is Potato Water?
Potato water is simply the leftover water after boiling potatoes. As the potatoes cook, they release starch, vitamins, and minerals into the water—turning it into a nutrient-rich, slightly thick liquid with multiple benefits.
Benefits of Potato Water
1. Rich in Nutrients 🌱
Potato water contains B vitamins, potassium, and small amounts of vitamin C and iron. It’s a great way to retain what’s usually lost in cooking.
2. A Natural Thickener 🍲
Thanks to its starch content, potato water can act as a gentle thickener in soups, stews, and gravies, giving them a silky texture.
3. Boosts Baking Results 🍞
Bakers love potato water because its starch helps create moist, fluffy bread with a longer shelf life. Swap it in place of regular water in bread dough for an extra-soft crumb.
4. Gentle for Digestion 🌿
Traditionally, potato water has been sipped warm as a mild digestive soother. Some believe it helps with acid reflux and stomach irritation.
5. Natural Plant Fertilizer 🌼
Cooled potato water is great for your garden! The nutrients feed plants, making it a free, eco-friendly fertilizer. (Just make sure it’s unsalted.)
How to Use Potato Water in Everyday Life
- In soups and stews: Use it as a base instead of plain water.
- For gravies and sauces: Adds body without extra flour or cornstarch.
- In bread baking: Substitute equal parts potato water for regular water.
- As a soothing drink: Sip a warm cup with a little honey for a natural remedy.
- For watering plants: Once cooled, pour onto houseplants or garden soil.
Storage Tips
- Allow the potato water to cool completely.
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in ice cube trays if you want to keep it handy for soups or sauces.
Final Thoughts
Potato water is a humble but powerful kitchen secret. Instead of throwing it away, save this starchy liquid to boost your cooking, improve your baking, nourish your plants, and even support your health.
Next time you boil potatoes, think twice before dumping the pot—you might just be pouring away liquid gold!
