Roast potatoes are a classic side dish that’s both simple and delicious. Here’s a straightforward recipe for perfectly crispy and flavorful roast potatoes:
Perfect Roast Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes (if desired) and cut them into evenly-sized chunks, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches. Uniform sizes ensure even cooking.
- Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps them get crispy. Pat them dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
- Parboil the Potatoes (Optional but recommended for extra crispiness):
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the potatoes are just starting to soften but are not fully cooked.
- Drain the potatoes and let them sit in the colander for a few minutes to steam dry.
- Season and Roast:
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary or thyme, and minced garlic (if using) until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. For best results, use a sheet with a rim to catch any drippings and ensure they have enough room to crisp up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, turning once or twice during cooking, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your potato chunks and your oven.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot.
Tips:
- Crispiness: For extra crispy potatoes, make sure they’re thoroughly dried before tossing with oil and avoid overcrowding the pan. Give them enough space to allow the hot air to circulate.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like paprika, cumin, or garlic powder to customize the flavor.
- Alternative Cooking Method: For a different twist, you can roast the potatoes in an air fryer for even crispier results.
Enjoy your delicious roast potatoes as a side dish with your favorite main course!