Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Herbs

This dish comprises deliciously crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with aromatic spices and a hint of butter. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive side dish at a gathering. The preparation requires some patience, but the end result is definitely worth it. Using young potatoes allows you to roast them with their skins on, adding a rustic touch and extra flavor. You'll enjoy a fulfilling experience as the potatoes' natural sweetness is elevated by the caramelization process. For this recipe, a well-greased pan or parchment paper ensures easy cleanup and perfect browning. By slicing the potatoes in half, you ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the delightful seasonings. Finally, a sprinkling of cheese, or a touch of butter, or fresh herbs provides a delightful finish. This versatile dish can be adapted to fit various dietary preferences and is a wonderful addition to any menu.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Potatoes - 1 kg, preferably young potatoes
• Butter - 50 grams, for greasing and flavor

Spices

• Salt - 1 teaspoon, or to taste
• Pepper - 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Garlic Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Dried Herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) - 1 tablespoon

Optional Toppings

• Cheese, Butter, or Fresh Herbs - for serving

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes (15 minutes preparation, 45 minutes cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). This ensures even heat distribution for crispy potatoes.
2. Choose young potatoes, if possible, as they can be roasted with their skins on, imparting more flavor and texture.
3. Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water, scrubbing gently if necessary to remove any dirt.
4. Slice each potato in half, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
5. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with butter for added flavor and to prevent sticking.
6. Place the potato halves on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down; this allows the cut surfaces to become crispy and golden.
7. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, or microwave it in a heatproof bowl until just melted.
8. Brush the potato halves with the melted butter using a pastry brush.
9. Sprinkle the spices—salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried herbs—over the potatoes, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
10. Toss the potatoes gently, ensuring they are evenly coated with the spices and butter.
11. Arrange the potato halves so that they do not touch; space between them allows hot air to circulate for optimal crisping.
12. Place the baking sheet on the center rack in the preheated oven.
13. Bake the potatoes for 45 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
14. Check the potatoes after about 30 minutes; if they are browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly.
15. Use a fork to test their tenderness; they should be soft on the inside when pierced.
16. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the potatoes to cool slightly.
17. Transfer the roasted potatoes to a serving dish.
18. Sprinkle them with cheese, or add a small dollop of butter as desired for additional flavor.
19. Garnish with fresh herbs to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.
20. Serve immediately while hot, to enjoy the full crispiness.

Tips

• For an extra crispy finish, toss the potatoes with a tablespoon of flour before seasoning.
• If you're avoiding dairy, replace butter with olive oil for a vegan variation.
• Use a combination of spices to suit your taste, such as smoked paprika or cumin for a unique twist.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: Use olive oil instead of butter and sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Herb Lover’s Delight: Increase the amount of fresh herbs and use a variety like basil, oregano, and parsley.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Serve alongside grilled meats for a hearty dinner.
• Enjoy with a creamy dip such as sour cream or tzatziki for added flavor.

Best Places

1. Chez Janou - A Parisian bistro known for authentic Provencal flavors. Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, Paris, France.
2. La Terrazza - Mediterranean-inspired with a beautiful rooftop view. Location: Via Ludovisi 49, Rome, Italy.
3. Katz's Delicatessen - Famous for its hearty, unpretentious dishes. Location: 205 East Houston Street, New York, USA.
4. The Potting Shed - Renowned for garden-to-table dining. Location: Langford Ln, Malmesbury, United Kingdom.
5. Bourke Street Bakery - Cozy Australian spot for comfort food. Location: 633 Bourke St, Surry Hills, Australia.
6. Time Out Market - An array of foods from different stalls, including herb-infused dishes. Location: Avenida 24 de Julho, Lisbon, Portugal.
7. Sturehof - A timeless restaurant serving Scandinavian dishes. Location: Stureplan 2, Stockholm, Sweden.
8. Doenjang - Innovative Korean flavors with a modern twist. Location: Seongsui-ro 7-gil, Seoul, South Korea.
9. Varvary - A fusion of Russian cuisine with modern flair. Location: Strastnoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
10. The Springbok Kitchen - Rustic charm with South African flavors. Location: 6 Vredehoek Ave, Cape Town, South Africa.