Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic – Whole30

Roasting potatoes holds a special place in many kitchens, often becoming the centerpiece of gatherings. The aroma of crispy roast potatoes with rosemary and garlic fills the air, reminding everyone of cozy family dinners and festive holidays. Each bite delivers a crispy exterior paired with a fluffy interior, elevating the simple potato to a culinary masterpiece.

What makes crispy roast potatoes so appealing? The process transforms ordinary yellow potatoes into a delectable dish. Through strategic preparation and roasting techniques, the crunchy texture and rich flavors come alive. This recipe unveils how to achieve that perfect crispy roast, making it a delightful addition to any Whole30 meal.

As the potatoes roast, the scent of garlic mingles with rosemary, creating an irresistible allure. This dish doesn’t just satiate hunger – it sparks joy and brings people together around the dinner table. Perfecting this crispy roast potato recipe allows anyone to enjoy the gratifying crunch and robust flavor with every mouthful.

The Fundamentals of Crispy Roast Potatoes

Fundamentals

Crispy roast potatoes start with choosing the right ingredients. Yellow potatoes, known for their creamy texture, provide a delightful contrast to their crispy exterior. The correct preparation method enhances the potato’s natural flavors and overall texture.

Salt plays a crucial role in enhancing taste. Both kosher salt and flakey sea salt are essential for seasoning at different stages. The balance of salt adds depth and complexity, making the potatoes truly flavorful.

Fat adds richness, and in this recipe, duck fat comes in as a luxurious option. Rich in flavor, it helps achieve that coveted golden crust. For those who prefer alternatives, olive oil, beef tallow, ghee, or even avocado oil can perform similarly. Choosing the right fat enhances both flavor and quality.

Preparation/Setup

Start by prepping the roasting pan. Place it in the oven as you preheat to 450°F, allowing it to get hot. A preheated pan ensures a crispy finish, as it sears the potatoes as soon as they hit the surface.

Rinsing the potatoes under cold water helps remove excess starch, enhancing crispiness. After rinsing, cut the potatoes into large chunks for even roasting.

Fill a large stock pot with cold water and add the potatoes along with two tablespoons of kosher salt and half a teaspoon of baking soda. The baking soda raises the pH level, breaking down the potato’s surface and promoting crispness as they roast.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds yellow potatoes – peeled and cut into large chunks
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt (plus extra to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ cup duck fat (or olive oil, beef tallow, ghee, or avocado oil)
• ¼ teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
• 1 whole head garlic (top trimmed)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (around 2 sprigs)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (or grass-fed butter)
• ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Directions

After preparing the potatoes in the stock pot, bring the water to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are just barely fork-tender, around 25 minutes. This step ensures that the insides are soft and perfect for roasting.

Drain the potatoes in a colander, allowing them to dry fully. This is an essential step; excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Once dried, give the potatoes a gentle shake in the colander to roughen their edges, which adds to the texture once roasted.

Remove the hot roasting pan from the oven and add the duck fat. Let it melt before adding the potatoes. Carefully toss the potatoes in the pan, coating them in the sizzling fat. Season each batch with a pinch of salt and freshly-cracked black pepper.

Nestle the head of garlic, cut-side down, into the pan before returning it to the oven. Cook the potatoes, tossing them every 20 minutes for 55 to 60 minutes, or until they turn a glorious golden brown.

Once finished, carefully remove the head of garlic, pushing out the individual cloves. Combine these roasted garlic cloves with finely chopped rosemary and olive oil in a bowl. Mash the mixture together using a fork, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully before tossing it with the potatoes.

Return the pan to the oven for an additional five minutes, allowing the rosemary to become fragrant and the garlic to lightly toast.

The Technique for Crispy Potatoes

Technique

The key to achieving crispy roast potatoes lies in the technique employed during the cooking process. After boiling, drying, and shaking the potatoes in the colander, the rough edges begin forming. These edges create nooks and crannies that crisp up beautifully.

Utilizing a preheated roasting pan is vital. The hot fat sears the potatoes upon contact, preventing them from becoming soggy. This initial sear builds a foundation for that perfect crunch.

Tossing the potatoes every 20 minutes allows them to evenly cook and brown. Neglecting to toss may result in uneven cooking and could lead to some potatoes becoming overly dark while others remain pale.

Tips/Tricks

For those looking to intensify flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Fresh thyme serves as a fantastic alternative to rosemary if desired.

Experiment with different fats if duck fat isn’t available. Regardless of which option is chosen, ensure it remains high quality for optimal flavor.

Monitoring the cooking time is essential. A few minutes too long may lead to overly browned potatoes, while undercooked ones can lack the signature crunch. Every oven varies, so keep an eye on those potatoes.

Don’t hesitate to taste-test for seasoning during the final moments of roasting. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving amplifies the flavor without overpowering it.

Perfecting Results with Crispy Roast Potatoes

Perfecting Results

Achieving perfectly crispy roast potatoes requires attention to detail. Variability in potato size can affect cooking time; adjust accordingly. Size consistency promotes even cooking and avoids uneven textures.

Freezing uncooked potatoes can help. Parboil them beforehand, then freeze uncovered on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a resealable bag or container. When ready to roast, prepare as normal, adding extra cooking time if needed.

Checking for doneness is easy. A fork should penetrate without much resistance, while the outer layer should shine with a golden hue.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If the potatoes seem soggy, ensure they dried thoroughly post-boil. Plus, consider increasing the oven temperature to aid browning.

For those wanting to add a twist, infuse the duck fat with herbs prior to roasting. Allow herbs like rosemary or garlic to steep for a short time, adding additional depth and flavor.

Adjusting the roast time can also create a variety of textures. For softer insides with crispy outsides, consider decreasing the roasting time slightly.

Serving and Storing Crispy Roast Potatoes

Serving/Presentation

Once those crispy roast potatoes come out of the oven, presentation matters. Transfer them to a serving bowl, ensuring they remain loosely piled to maintain their texture. Drizzle with the garlic-rosemary oil mixture for that extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Consider garnishing them with additional fresh herbs, enhancing their visual appeal while adding a burst of color. The contrast of the golden potatoes against the green of the herbs makes for an inviting dish on any table.

Pairings/Storage

Crispy roast potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. They complement roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or serve as a stand-alone treat with aioli or gourmet dips.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. A quick blast in the oven will re-crisp those edges, ensuring you enjoy every last bite.

Preparing crispy roast potatoes is a straightforward yet rewarding process. These flavorful bites bring people together and transform a meal into something special. Enjoy the journey from kitchen to table, savoring each enjoyable and delicious mouthful.

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