Get ready to transform your ordinary potato side dish into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Fennel Mania Fennel Crusted Potatoes are not just a recipe, they're a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Imagine golden, crispy potato rounds infused with the magical, slightly sweet, and aromatic essence of toasted fennel seeds – a combination so delightful it'll make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria and your plate look like a work of art.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fennel seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the potato slices dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure maximum crispiness.
- In a small skillet, toast the fennel seeds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Use a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to lightly crush the toasted fennel seeds, releasing their aromatic oils.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, crushed fennel seeds, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh thyme. Toss everything together until the potato slices are evenly coated with the seasonings.
- Arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping. This will help them crisp up evenly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides.
- Remove from the oven when the potato edges are golden brown and crispy, and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let the potatoes rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven to allow them to crisp up further. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Tips
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Always pat your potato slices completely dry before seasoning to ensure they get that perfect golden crunch.
- Toasting fennel seeds is crucial – it releases their essential oils and deepens their flavor. Be careful not to burn them; they should be lightly golden and fragrant.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each potato slice some breathing room to ensure even roasting and maximum crispiness.
- Halfway through cooking, flip the potatoes to guarantee an even, golden-brown color on both sides.
- Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after roasting. This allows them to crisp up even more and makes them easier to handle.
- For an extra flavor boost, try serving with a quick aioli or herb-infused dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
