Roast potatoes are a classic side dish that’s popular for Sunday roasts, holiday dinners, or any special meal. They’re known for their crispy exterior and tender, fluffy interior. Here’s a basic recipe for making delicious roast potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes or other starchy potatoes
- 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil, such as canola or sunflower
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a large roasting pan or baking sheet in the oven while it preheats to get it hot.
- Peel and Cut Potatoes: Peel the potatoes if desired (you can leave the skin on for a more rustic texture). Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. Traditionally, roast potatoes are cut into chunks or wedges, but you can also make them into smaller pieces for faster cooking.
- Parboil Potatoes: Place the potato pieces in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 7-10 minutes until the potatoes are just beginning to soften. You want them to be partially cooked but not fully tender. Drain the potatoes in a colander.
- Fluff and Season: Return the potatoes to the pot. Shake the pot vigorously to roughen up the edges of the potatoes. This will help create a crispy exterior. Season the potatoes with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and any optional herbs or spices you like.
- Add Oil: Drizzle the vegetable oil over the potatoes and toss them well to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
- Roast: Carefully remove the hot roasting pan or baking sheet from the oven. Place the potatoes in a single layer on the hot pan. Make sure they are not overcrowded; there should be some space between each potato piece. This will help them crisp up evenly.
- Roast: Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Turn them over once or twice during cooking to ensure even browning.
- Serve: Remove the roast potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Serve them hot as a side dish for your roast dinner.
Enjoy your homemade roast potatoes with your favorite roast meat, gravy, and other side dishes. They are a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal.
