Imagine biting into a potato so crisp it shatters like golden glass, yet so fluffy inside it melts in your mouth. These aren't just any roast potatoes – these are the ULTIMATE crispy roast potatoes that will transform your side dishes from ordinary to extraordinary! Whether you're hosting a Sunday roast or looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this foolproof recipe will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy exteriors.
- Peel potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks, approximately 2-3 inches in size. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Place potato chunks in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and parboil for 8-10 minutes until edges start to soften and become slightly fluffy.
- Drain potatoes in a colander and shake vigorously to roughen the edges. These rough surfaces will create extra crispy exteriors when roasted.
- Pour vegetable oil into a large roasting pan and place in the hot oven for 5 minutes to heat the oil thoroughly.
- Carefully remove hot oil pan and add parboiled potatoes, turning them to coat completely in hot oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes, turning potatoes every 15 minutes to ensure even golden browning on all sides.
- Potatoes are done when they have a deep golden, crispy exterior and are soft and fluffy inside. Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russet or Maris Piper for the crispiest results.
- The Parboil Secret: Don't skip the parboiling step! Shaking the potatoes in the colander creates those crucial rough edges that become incredibly crispy when roasted.
- Hot Oil is Key: Heating the oil in the pan before adding potatoes ensures an immediate, crisp exterior.
- Space Matters: Don't overcrowd the roasting pan. Give potatoes room to breathe for maximum crispiness.
- Turning is Essential: Rotate the potatoes every 15 minutes to ensure even golden browning on all sides.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt and pepper – they're crucial for developing flavor.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the last 10 minutes of roasting for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
