Crispy Roast Potatoes

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly roasted potato crispy and golden on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. This recipe delivers that delightful contrast, making it an ideal side dish for any meal.​ By parboiling the potatoes with a touch of vinegar and roughing up their surfaces before roasting, you create the perfect texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Whether you choose to use duck fat for a rich, savory flavor or olive oil for a vegan-friendly option, these roast potatoes are sure to become a staple at your table.​

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:​

• 4 1/2 pounds (2kg) russet potatoes, rinsed, peeled if desired, and cut into 2-inch chunks​

• Kosher salt​

• 1 tablespoon (15ml) white vinegar​

• 1/4 cup (60ml) duck fat (or olive oil for a vegan option)​

• Freshly ground black pepper​

• 12 sprigs thyme

Directions:​

1. Adjust oven racks to lower and upper positions and preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).​

2. Place potatoes in a large saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Add 2 tablespoons (28g) salt and vinegar. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce to a simmer, and cook until exteriors are tender, about 5 minutes. Potatoes should show slight resistance when poked with a paring knife or a cake tester.​

3. Drain potatoes and transfer to a large bowl. Add fat to the bowl with potatoes. Season with pepper and more salt to taste, then toss with a large metal spoon until exteriors are slightly bashed up and coated in a thin layer of potato/fat paste.​

4. Divide potatoes evenly between two heavy rimmed baking sheets. Spread thyme sprigs over potatoes.​

5. Transfer baking sheets to oven and roast until bottoms of potatoes are crisp and golden brown, about 20 minutes total, swapping trays top for bottom and rotating them once halfway through roasting. Using a thin metal spatula, flip potatoes and roast until second side is golden brown, another 15 to 20 minutes.​

6. Discard thyme sprigs and serve immediately

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes​

Kcal: 245 kcal | Servings: 8 to 10 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Making Crispy Roast Potatoes

Roast potatoes are a beloved side dish enjoyed by people around the world. With their golden-brown exterior and fluffy interior, they provide the perfect balance of crunch and softness. Whether served alongside a Sunday roast, a holiday feast, or as a standalone treat, crispy roast potatoes never fail to impress. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what makes the perfect roast potatoes, different variations, and pro tips to achieve that irresistible crispiness.

What Makes Roast Potatoes So Special?

Roast potatoes are all about texture. Unlike mashed or boiled potatoes, which emphasize softness, roast potatoes deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Their crispiness is achieved through a combination of proper potato selection, pre-boiling, roughing up the surface, and using the right type of fat. This combination creates an outer crust that locks in the tender, fluffy interior.

Apart from their texture, roast potatoes also have a deep, roasted flavor that pairs well with various seasonings. Herbs like rosemary and thyme, as well as garlic and sea salt, elevate the taste of these simple yet extraordinary potatoes.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

The type of potato you choose plays a crucial role in determining the final texture of your roast potatoes. Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to roasting. Here are some of the best varieties for achieving that perfect crispiness:

• Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffier interior and crispier exterior.
• Yukon Gold Potatoes: While slightly waxier, these potatoes develop a beautifully golden crust while maintaining a creamy interior.
• Maris Piper (UK): A favorite among British cooks, this variety balances starch and moisture, making it an excellent choice for roast potatoes.

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Potatoes

Achieving the ultimate crispy roast potatoes requires a combination of methods that enhance the texture and flavor. Here are the essential steps to take your roast potatoes to the next level:

1. Parboiling with Salt and Vinegar

Boiling the potatoes before roasting them helps break down the outer layer, allowing for a crispier surface when roasted. Adding a bit of salt and vinegar to the boiling water helps season the potatoes and prevents them from becoming too mushy.

2. Roughing Up the Edges

After boiling, tossing the potatoes in a colander or shaking them in a bowl helps create a rough surface. These rough edges turn into crispy, golden-brown bits once roasted in the oven.

3. Using the Right Fat

The type of fat used for roasting affects both the flavor and texture of the potatoes. Traditional choices include:

• Duck Fat: Offers a rich, savory flavor and superior crispiness.
• Goose Fat: Similar to duck fat, it gives a deep, indulgent taste.
• Olive Oil: A great vegetarian and vegan option that still delivers crunch and flavor.

4. High Heat for Maximum Crispiness

Roasting at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C or higher) ensures that the exterior crisps up while the inside stays tender. Preheating the baking tray before adding the potatoes also helps in achieving an evenly crispy crust.

Flavor Variations for Roast Potatoes

While classic roast potatoes with salt and pepper are delicious, experimenting with different seasonings can elevate the dish even further. Here are some creative seasoning ideas:

• Garlic and Herb: Toss potatoes with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme for a fragrant finish.
• Spicy Kick: Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of roasting for a crispy, cheesy crust.
• Lemon and Herb: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice combined with parsley adds a refreshing twist.

Best Dishes to Serve with Roast Potatoes

Crispy roast potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here are some classic pairings:

• Roast Chicken: The crispy potatoes soak up the delicious juices from a well-seasoned roast chicken.
• Beef Roast or Steak: The crunch of the potatoes balances the richness of beef dishes.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted bell peppers, asparagus, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian meal.
• Fish and Seafood: Roasted potatoes complement baked or grilled salmon, cod, or shrimp beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making roast potatoes seems simple, a few common mistakes can prevent them from reaching their full potential:

• Skipping the Parboiling Step: If you don’t boil the potatoes first, they won’t develop that crispy exterior.
• Not Using Enough Fat: The potatoes need enough fat to coat their surface and encourage browning.
• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: Giving the potatoes space ensures they roast evenly instead of steaming.
• Using the Wrong Type of Potato: Waxy potatoes can result in less crispy results, so choosing the right variety is crucial.

Conclusion:

Crispy roast potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion, offering a delightful crunch and soft, fluffy interior. With the right choice of potatoes, proper preparation techniques, and seasoning variations, you can make this classic dish even better. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or as a simple weeknight dinner side, these golden-brown delights are sure to impress. So next time you’re in the kitchen, give these tips a try and enjoy the crispiest, most flavorful roast potatoes you’ve ever made!