When you’re following a recipe, it’s common to see ingredients listed in terms like “medium potato,” but what does that actually mean? I mean, a “medium” potato can be pretty subjective, right? And if you’re cooking something specific,
like mashed potatoes or a hearty stew, the size of your potato can definitely make a difference in how much you end up with. So, how big is a medium potato, really? Let’s dive into the details, and I promise it’s not as confusing as you think!
Trying Every Type Of Potato | The Big Guide | Epicurious
A “medium” potato typically refers to a potato that falls in the 5 to 6 ounce (150 to 170 grams) weight range. This is the size you’ll often encounter in recipes unless they’re really specific about the weight or size of the potato. But how do you know if the potato in your hand qualifies as medium? Here’s how to determine it:
- Size: A medium potato is usually about 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter and 4 to 5 inches long.
- Weight: 5.3 to 6 ounces or about 150 to 170 grams.
- Shape: It’s usually round or oval-shaped, not too large or too small.
If you’re unsure, just think of the size of a tennis ball that’s pretty close to a medium-sized potato.
How to Measure Potatoes for Recipes
If your recipe calls for a specific number of “medium potatoes,” you might wonder if you need to measure them exactly. Here’s a practical tip:
- Using Weight: If you have a kitchen scale, that’s your best bet. A medium potato weighs about 5.3 to 6 ounces (150–170 grams).
- Using Volume: A medium potato will typically yield about 1 cup of mashed potatoes or diced pieces.
- In Recipes: When a recipe asks for “2 medium potatoes,” it’s generally implying that you’re using around 300-340 grams worth of potatoes.
You can always get close to this by eyeballing it and adjusting based on what the recipe seems to need. Don’t stress too much over an extra ounce or two!
What If Your Potato Is Too Big or Too Small?
So, you’ve got a potato that’s too big or too small, and you’re thinking, “Can I still use it?” The answer is yes but with a few adjustments!
- If it’s too big: You can easily slice a large potato in half, saving one for later, or use it as if it’s two smaller potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as larger pieces take longer to cook.
- If it’s too small: You might want to use an extra potato to make sure you have enough for your recipe. Small potatoes tend to have a higher skin-to-flesh ratio, so you may not get as much usable volume.
Medium Potatoes vs. Other Potato Sizes
You might have noticed that potatoes come in all shapes and sizes: small, medium, large, and sometimes even extra-large. How do these sizes compare?
- Small Potatoes: Typically weigh less than 5 ounces (140 grams). Think of the size of a golf ball or smaller.
- Large Potatoes: Weigh over 8 ounces (230 grams). These are the potatoes that are great for baked potatoes or big servings!
- Extra-Large Potatoes: These can go up to 1 pound (450 grams) or more! These are often seen in restaurant-sized portions.
Common Potato Varieties and Their Sizes
Not all potatoes are created equal. Different varieties of potatoes can have different sizes, even within the “medium” range. Some popular varieties include:
- Russet Potatoes: Typically on the larger side, but medium russets can weigh about 5 to 6 ounces.
- Red Potatoes: These tend to be smaller than russets but can still fit into the medium range.
- Yukon Golds: These can vary, but medium Yukon Golds generally fall within the 5 to 6-ounce range.
When choosing potatoes for your recipe, it’s helpful to know which variety you’re working with. For instance, a medium russet potato will be larger than a medium red potato, so adjust your recipe accordingly.
Conclusion
So, now you know: a medium potato weighs about 5 to 6 ounces (150–170 grams), typically measuring around 4 to 5 inches long and 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter. Whether you’re cooking mashed potatoes, a stew, or a baked potato,
understanding the size and weight of your potatoes can help you follow recipes more accurately. Don’t worry if your potato is a little bigger or smaller; just adjust your recipe as needed, and you’ll be good to go! Happy cooking!