Potatoes have been a staple in kitchens worldwide for centuries, but there’s a revolutionary new technique taking the world by storm—and it’s guaranteed to transform the way you cook these humble spuds. No more soggy, overcooked potatoes. This method will give you crispy, golden perfection every time, and it’s incredibly simple!
What’s the secret? Boil and Smash! That’s right, boiling your potatoes until tender, then smashing and roasting them creates the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers.
Here’s how you can master this viral potato technique and wow your friends and family!
Ingredients:
- 500g baby or medium-sized potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes work best)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- Butter (optional)
Method:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing your potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, but not falling apart. This should take around 10-15 minutes depending on the size of the potatoes.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Smash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are boiled and tender, drain them and let them cool slightly. Transfer them onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a fork or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato to flatten it. Don’t overdo it—you’re aiming to create more surface area for crisping, not mashed potatoes!
4. Season and Oil:
Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil. For extra flavor, toss the minced garlic, fresh rosemary, or thyme on top. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Roast to Crispy Perfection:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown around the edges. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Optional Butter Drizzle:
For a final layer of flavor, melt some butter and drizzle it over the crispy potatoes once they come out of the oven. This step is optional, but it adds a delightful richness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the tray from the oven, and let the potatoes cool slightly. Serve as a side dish to any meal, or enjoy them as a crispy snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
Why This Technique Works:
The beauty of this technique lies in the smashing! By flattening the potatoes before roasting, you create lots of crispy edges while keeping the centers tender and fluffy. The oil helps to caramelize the outsides, creating that irresistible crunch.
Bonus Tips:
- Add spices: Experiment with smoked paprika, chili flakes, or cumin to give your potatoes extra flair.
- Use sweet potatoes: For a healthier option, try this technique with sweet potatoes. They won’t crisp up quite as much, but the contrast between the caramelized edges and the soft interior is fantastic.
- Make ahead: You can boil the potatoes in advance and smash/roast them later, making this perfect for meal prep or dinner parties!
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