Fingerling Potato Recipes: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciousness

Right, let’s talk fingerling potatoes. These little gems, with their unique shapes and vibrant colours, have become a firm favourite in my kitchen. I love their versatility – they’re perfect roasted, fried, mashed, or even used in salads. And their slightly sweet, nutty flavour just makes everything taste better.This guide is going to be your one-stop shop for all things fingerling potato. We'll dive into everything from choosing the perfect potatoes to mastering some truly delicious recipes that'll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). So, grab your apron, put on the kettle, and let’s get started!

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Fingerlings

The first step to making a truly sensational fingerling potato dish is choosing the right spuds. Believe me, it’s a bit of an art form, but I’m here to help you become a fingerling potato connoisseur.

The Look and Feel

When you're at the market, look for fingerlings that are firm to the touch, with smooth, unblemished skin. They should feel weighty for their size. Avoid any that are soft, shriveled, or have green patches (those are a sign of solanine, a natural toxin that can be harmful if consumed).

Think of the fingerling as a small, perfect potato. It should be firm, smooth, and free from any blemishes or discoloration.

Colour and Variety

The world of fingerling potatoes is full of colours and flavours, and it's fun to experiment. Here are a few of the most popular varieties:

• Purple Fingerlings: These beauties have a slightly sweet flavour and a beautiful purple hue. They're a real eye-catcher on the plate. They often have a slightly earthy taste, making them a fantastic choice for dishes with rich flavours.
• Yellow Fingerlings: These are the most common type of fingerling, with a creamy yellow skin and a mild, nutty flavour. They're versatile and pair well with many ingredients, making them a safe choice for any recipe.
• Red Fingerlings: These have a more intense flavour than the yellow ones, with a hint of earthiness. Their vibrant red skin makes them a real showstopper. They tend to be a bit more starchy than other varieties, which makes them perfect for frying or roasting.

My personal favourite? Purple fingerlings. They’re so visually appealing, and their delicate sweetness pairs perfectly with a range of flavours. They add a splash of colour to any dish.

(Part 2) Preparing the Fingerlings

Once you've got your fingerlings, it's time to get them ready for cooking. This is a pretty straightforward process, but here are a few tips to ensure perfect results:

Cleaning Up

Give those fingerlings a good scrub with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris. You can also soak them in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes to loosen any stubborn dirt. No need to peel them - the skin adds flavour and texture.

The skin of the fingerling potato is packed with nutrients and flavour. So, don't peel them unless your recipe specifically calls for it.

Cutting and Slicing

Depending on the recipe, you may need to cut the fingerlings. For roasting, I usually cut them in half lengthwise, but you can also leave them whole or cut them into smaller chunks. For frying, you can slice them into thin rounds or cut them into wedges.

Think about the final dish you're creating and choose a cut that will work best. For example, if you're making mashed fingerling potatoes, you'll want to cut them into smaller pieces so they cook more evenly.

Soaking in Water

For some recipes, like roasted fingerlings, it’s a good idea to soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from sticking to the pan. The soaking also helps to remove any excess starch.

This simple step goes a long way in ensuring that your fingerling potatoes are cooked perfectly. And who doesn't love a perfectly roasted fingerling?

(Part 3) Roasted Fingerling Potatoes: A Classic for a Reason

Roasted fingerling potatoes are a staple in my kitchen. They’re easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always turn out delicious. Here’s my favourite recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. The oil helps to create a crispy exterior while the spices add a delicious depth of flavour.
3. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. This will help them roast evenly.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown. The potatoes should be fork-tender and have a slightly crispy exterior.
5. Serve immediately.

You can play around with the seasonings to create your own unique flavour combinations. Add some rosemary or thyme for a more earthy flavour, or sprinkle with chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

(Part 4) Fried Fingerling Potatoes: Crispy and Delicious

For a quick and easy side dish, fried fingerling potatoes are hard to beat. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and absolutely addictive. The perfect companion to a juicy burger or a hearty steak.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when you add the potatoes.
2. Add the potatoes to the hot oil and fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and don't become soggy.
3. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. The potatoes should be firm to the touch and have a crispy exterior.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oil and drain on paper towels. This will help to absorb any excess oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For an extra crispy finish, you can toss the fried potatoes in a small amount of cornstarch before serving. They’ll be so crispy, they’ll practically shatter in your mouth.

(Part 5) Fingerling potato salad: A Fresh and Bright Side Dish

Fingerling potato salad is a great way to enjoy the bright, fresh flavours of spring and summer. It’s also a perfect way to use up any leftover roasted fingerlings. And it's the perfect side dish for a barbecue or picnic.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, roasted and cooled
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the roasted potatoes, mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, dill, and red onion. The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard creates a creamy and tangy dressing that complements the roasted potatoes.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavours to meld and the salad to chill.

You can add other ingredients to your potato salad, like chopped celery, hard-boiled eggs, or even a handful of chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch.

(Part 6) Mashed Fingerling Potatoes: Creamy and Comforting

While fingerling potatoes are perfect for roasting and frying, they can also be used to make a delicious and creamy mashed potato. It’s a bit different from traditional mashed potatoes, as the fingerlings retain their shape, making for a more interesting texture. The slightly sweet, nutty flavour of fingerling potatoes shines through in this recipe, creating a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender when they're ready.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add the milk and butter to the pot and mash with a potato masher until smooth. You can use a potato ricer or food mill for a smoother consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For a more luxurious mash, you can add a dollop of sour cream or crème fra??che to the top of your mashed fingerlings.

(Part 7) Fingerling Potato Gnocchi: A Delightful Italian Treat

Let’s take a trip to Italy for this one. Gnocchi are a classic Italian comfort food, and using fingerling potatoes adds a unique texture and flavour to this dish. These little potato dumplings are light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious. They're best served fresh, so make sure you enjoy them as soon as they're cooked.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and boiled until tender
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup sage leaves

Instructions

1. Mash the boiled potatoes while still hot. This will help to create a smooth and pliable dough.
2. Add the flour, egg, and salt to the mashed potatoes and mix well. The flour will give the gnocchi its structure, while the egg adds richness and moisture.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Kneading the dough helps to develop the gluten and make it more elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces and use a fork to create ridges on each gnocchi piece. The ridges help the gnocchi to sauce better and create a more appealing appearance.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. The gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface, indicating that they are cooked through.
7. Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and drain.
8. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until crispy. The butter and sage leaves create a delicious and aromatic sauce for the gnocchi.
9. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat.
10. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. The grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory flavour that complements the gnocchi perfectly.

These gnocchi are light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious.

(Part 8) Fingerling potato fritters: A Crunchy and Savoury Snack

Fingerling potato fritters are a fantastic way to use up leftover fingerlings. They're crispy, savoury, and perfect as a snack or a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well. The flour helps to bind the mixture together, while the egg adds moisture and richness.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when you add the fritters.
3. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Fry the fritters in batches to ensure that they cook evenly and don't become soggy.
4. Remove the fritters from the oil and drain on paper towels. This will help to absorb any excess oil.
5. Serve immediately.

You can add other ingredients to your fritters, like grated cheese, chopped herbs, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

(Part 9) Fingerling potato soup: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

Fingerling potato soup is a perfect winter warmer. It's creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavour. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cold evening.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fingerling potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. The onion and garlic provide a delicious base for the soup.
2. Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. The potatoes should be fork-tender when they're ready.
3. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth. This creates a creamy and velvety texture.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. The heavy cream adds richness and depth of flavour to the soup.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. The chopped parsley adds a fresh and vibrant flavour to the soup.

This soup is delicious served with a crusty bread for dipping. You can also add other ingredients to your soup, like chopped carrots, celery, or even a dollop of sour cream for a more luxurious touch.

(Part 10) Fingerling Potato Recipes: A Table of Delight

To make it easier for you to choose your next fingerling potato adventure, here’s a table summarizing the recipes we've covered:

Recipe	Description	Perfect for
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes	Crispy, flavourful, and simple to make.	A quick and easy side dish for any meal.
Fried Fingerling Potatoes	Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside.	A delicious and addictive side dish.
Fingerling Potato Salad	Fresh, bright, and perfect for summer gatherings.	A light and refreshing side dish.
Mashed Fingerling Potatoes	Creamy, comforting, and with a unique texture.	A delicious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Fingerling Potato Gnocchi	Light, fluffy, and bursting with Italian flavour.	A satisfying and elegant main course.
Fingerling Potato Fritters	Crispy, savoury, and perfect for a snack or a light lunch.	A delicious way to use up leftover fingerlings.
Fingerling Potato Soup	Creamy, comforting, and perfect for a chilly day.	A hearty and satisfying meal.

(Part 11) FAQs about Fingerling Potatoes

Now, you've got a whole arsenal of fingerling potato recipes, but let's answer a few common questions to make your fingerling potato journey even smoother.

1. How do I store fingerling potatoes?

Fingerling potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. Keep them in a paper bag or a loosely woven basket to allow for air circulation. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and lead to spoilage. They should last for about 2 weeks stored this way.

This is how I store mine, and they always stay fresh and delicious. It's important to remember that potatoes are a root vegetable and should be kept in a cool, dark environment.

2. Can I freeze fingerling potatoes?

You can freeze fingerling potatoes, but they won't be as good as fresh ones. Their texture will change, becoming slightly mushy. If you do decide to freeze them, blanch them first by boiling them for a few minutes, then drain them and cool them before freezing.

Freezing fingerling potatoes is a good way to preserve them if you have a surplus. But remember that they'll be best used in dishes where the texture isn't as important.

3. What are some good substitutes for fingerling potatoes?

If you can't find fingerling potatoes, you can substitute them with other types of small potatoes, such as Yukon Golds or red potatoes. These will have a slightly different flavour and texture, but will still work well in the recipes.

Yukon Golds and red potatoes are both excellent choices for substituting fingerling potatoes, as they have a similar texture and hold their shape well during cooking.

4. Can I use fingerling potatoes for making fries?

You can absolutely make fries with fingerling potatoes! Just be sure to cut them into thin, even strips, and fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.

Fingerling fries are a delicious and unique twist on the classic potato fry. They're smaller and more delicate, but they still achieve that perfect crispy texture.

5. What are some other ways I can use fingerling potatoes?

You can add fingerling potatoes to stir-fries, stews, or even use them as a topping for pizzas. They're also delicious when roasted with herbs and spices and served as a side dish with grilled meats or fish.

Fingerling potatoes are a versatile ingredient and can be used in many different ways. They add a unique flavour and texture to any dish.

I hope this ultimate guide to fingerling potato recipes has inspired you to get cooking. From roasted to fried, mashed to gnocchi, there’s a fingerling potato recipe out there for every taste and occasion. So, grab a bag of those little beauties, fire up your oven, and get creative!