Introduction

Roast potatoes are a classic side dish that can elevate any meal, bringing a delightful crunch and a comforting, fluffy interior. The key to achieving truly crunchy roast potatoes lies in the right technique and selection of ingredients. This recipe promises perfectly golden and crispy potatoes that are ideal for Sunday roasts or as a simple side dish for any occasion.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Potatoes: 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs) of floury potatoes, such as Maris Piper or Russet
Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
Sea salt: to taste
Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Garlic cloves: 4, skin-on
Fresh rosemary: 2 sprigs (optional)
Vegetable broth or water: 1 cup

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people

This recipe for truly crunchy roast potatoes guarantees a satisfying crunch on the outside and a fluffy texture within, making them a must-try addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy these delectable potatoes alongside your favorite mains or as a standalone treat.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 220°C (450°F). Make sure the oven is fully heated before proceeding.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Choose starchy potatoes such as Maris Piper or Yukon Gold. Peel them and cut into even-sized chunks, about 5 cm (2 inches) each.

Step 3: Parboil the Potatoes

Place the potato chunks in a large pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil and then simmer for approximately 10 minutes until they are just starting to soften but not fully cooked.

Step 4: Drain and Rough Up the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to steam off excess moisture. Then, gently shake the colander to rough up the edges of the potatoes, which will help create a crunchy exterior.

Step 5: Add Oil to Baking Tray

Add a generous amount of oil (vegetable or duck fat) to a heavy baking tray or roasting pan. Place it in the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes until the oil is very hot but not smoking.

Step 6: Coat the Potatoes in Oil

Carefully add the roughened potatoes to the hot oil in the baking tray. Toss them to coat evenly with the oil.

Step 7: Roast the Potatoes

Return the tray to the oven and roast for approximately 40 to 50 minutes. Turn the potatoes halfway through cooking for even browning, until they are golden and crispy.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Once the potatoes are fully roasted and crispy, remove them from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your crunchy roast potatoes as a side dish.

Notes

Oil Options

Using duck fat or goose fat will yield richer flavors and extra crispiness, but vegetable oil or olive oil can also work well.

Potato Types

For best results, opt for high-starch potatoes as they yield fluffier interiors and crispy exteriors.

Adjusting Cooking Time

Cooking time may vary based on the size of potato chunks and your oven’s performance. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the cooking time.

Make Ahead Tip

You can parboil the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. Simply roast them when ready to serve.

Cook techniques

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Select starchy potatoes like Russets for the best crunchiness. Waxy potatoes such as new potatoes will not yield the same results.

Parboiling

Boil the potatoes until just tender but not fully cooked. This helps to create a fluffy interior that contrasts nicely with the crisp exterior.

Roughing Up the Edges

After parboiling, shake the potatoes in the pot to roughen their surfaces. This increases the surface area, allowing for better crisping.

Using the Right Fat

Opt for a high smoke point fat, such as duck fat, or use vegetable oil for frying. This ensures that the potatoes get crispy without burning.

Spreading Out on the Baking Tray

Ensure that the potatoes are in a single layer on the baking tray. Avoid crowding, as this can result in steaming instead of roasting.

High Heat Roasting

Roast the potatoes at a high temperature to achieve a golden brown crust. This helps to lock in moisture while effectively crisping the exterior.

Turning Halfway

Turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.

FAQ

What type of potatoes are best for roasting?

Starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal as they yield a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior.

Is parboiling necessary?

Yes, parboiling is essential as it tenderizes the potatoes and allows for better texture after roasting.

Can I use olive oil for roasting?

Olive oil can be used, but for better results, consider a higher smoke point oil like vegetable or duck fat.

Why should I roughen the edges?

Roughing up the edges increases the surface area, enhancing the crispiness of the potatoes during roasting.

How long should I roast the potatoes?

Typically, roasting takes about 30 to 40 minutes at high heat, depending on the size of the potato pieces.

Conclusion

The Truly Crunchy Roast Potatoes recipe delivers an exceptional side dish with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior that elevates any meal. By perfecting the technique of parboiling and using the right oils and seasonings, you can achieve restaurant-quality potatoes at home. Experimenting with variations can lead to even more delicious results.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Herbed Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Add minced garlic and fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist on the classic roast potatoes.

Spicy Paprika Roast Potatoes

Incorporate smoked paprika and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bold flavor kick that complements many main dishes.

Lemon and Dill Roasted Potatoes

Marinate the potatoes in olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill before roasting for a zesty and refreshing flavor profile.

Parmesan Crusted Roast Potatoes

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes in the final minutes of roasting to create a savory and cheesy crust.

Maple-Balsamic Roast Potatoes

Glaze the potatoes with a mixture of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar before roasting for a sweet and tangy finish.