Salt Potatoes

Salt potatoes are a regional dish made by boiling small, waxy potatoes in heavily salted water until tender, then serving them with melted butter.

Popular in upstate New York, especially around Syracuse, this simple side dish delivers a creamy interior and a uniquely seasoned skin.

Are Salt Potatoes Different From Regular Potatoes?

Yes, salt potatoes are different from standard boiled potatoes in both preparation and texture. The key is boiling small white or yellow potatoes—typically with their skins on—in a high-salt brine. As the potatoes cook, the salt forms a thin crust on the outside while the insides become creamy and rich. The high salt content in the water raises the boiling point slightly, which results in a more evenly cooked and buttery texture compared to regular boiling methods.

Are Salt Potatoes Healthy?

Salt potatoes can be part of a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation. While they are higher in sodium due to the boiling method, most of the salt stays in the water. The actual sodium absorbed by the potatoes is minimal, especially if you skip additional salted butter. They’re naturally gluten-free and made with just a few whole ingredients, making them a clean side option when prepared thoughtfully.

What States Have Salt Potatoes?

Salt potatoes are most closely associated with Central and Upstate New York, particularly the Syracuse region. They’re a staple at summer cookouts, fairs, and clambakes in that area. While not as common elsewhere, their popularity has spread thanks to their simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. You may find them popping up in neighboring states or at food festivals that feature regional specialties.

Can You Buy Salt Potatoes?

Yes, you can buy salt potatoes in pre-packaged kits at many grocery stores throughout New York and nearby states. These kits usually include a bag of small white potatoes along with a pouch of salt for boiling. If you can’t find them locally, you can easily make them at home using just baby potatoes and kosher or table salt.

Homemade Salt Potato Kit Tip: Use about 1 cup of salt for every 6 cups of water and boil 2 pounds of baby white or yellow potatoes for around 20–25 minutes until tender.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salt potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave, oven, or in a skillet with a bit of butter until warmed through. Avoid boiling again, as it may cause the skins to toughen.
• Freezing: Not recommended. The texture of boiled potatoes tends to suffer after freezing and thawing.