Although spoilage may be minimal, expiration dates are used on such products as spiral ham to ensure quality and reliability of the meat. Most spiral hams have a seven-to-10 day use by date on the expiration date label.
Generally, you boil potatoes when you plan to mash them or toss them into a salad, though boiled potatoes can also make a quick side dish. Boiling also cooks potatoes very evenly all the way through and usually only takes 10 to 20 minutes.
Quarter and boil the potatoes. 1  Cut each potato into 4 pieces and place the pieces in a pot. 2  Add water to just cover the potatoes, and bring to a boil. 3  Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and allow the potatoes to simmer until tender--approximately 20 minutes. Cut each potato into 4 pieces and place the pieces in a pot. 2  Add water to just cover the potatoes, and bring to a boil. 3  Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and allow the potatoes to simmer until tender--approximately 20 minutes.