Boil

How long to boil chunks and whole potatoes for mashing, which potatoes to use, and how to get a smooth, never gluey mash.

Boiling times for whole, halved, cubed and sliced potatoes, with a cold-water start, salting guide and fork test.

Simmer boneless chicken breasts for 12 to 15 minutes, with times for bone-in, frozen, shredded, tenders and whole chicken.

Fresh, husked corn on the cob needs just 3 to 5 minutes in boiling water, while frozen ears take 5 to 8 minutes and corn in the husk about 10.