Craving a taste of something ultra-crispy and incredibly delicious? Dive into the world of Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes, a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your crunchy cravings. These perfectly smashed and roasted potatoes boast a crispy exterior with a fluffy interior, making them an irresistible side dish or snack. Whether you enjoy them as they are or with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh touch, Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a flavor-packed favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients List
Potato Ingredients
- 700g / 1.4 lb small potatoes (12 – 14) or
- 1 – 1.2kg / 2 – 2.4lb medium potatoes (6 – 8)
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling)
- 30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 tsp salt (for sprinkling)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Finely chopped parsley, optional garnish
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Large Pot: To boil the potatoes until they are tender.
- Colander: For draining the boiled potatoes.
- Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper for roasting the potatoes.
- Potato Masher or Fork: To gently smash the potatoes.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing melted butter and olive oil mixture on the potatoes.
- Spatula: To carefully flip the potatoes halfway through roasting.
Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes-making experience.
Potato Preparation
Preparing the potatoes for Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture and flavor for this delightful treat. Follow the steps below to cook and smash the potatoes properly.
Boiling the Potatoes
To start the potato preparation, place the small or medium potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add 1 tbsp of salt to the water, which helps to season the potatoes as they cook. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer until they are tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes for small potatoes and 25-30 minutes for medium potatoes. You can check the doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the potatoes; they should be easily pierced with little resistance.
Draining and Cooling
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them using a colander and let them cool slightly. This cooling step is important as it allows the potatoes to firm up a bit, making them easier to smash without falling apart. After about 5-10 minutes of cooling, transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ready for the smashing process.
Smashed Potatoes Preparation
To prepare the Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes, follow these steps for perfectly smashed and crispy potatoes:
- Smash the Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or the bottom of a fork, gently press down on each potato to flatten it. Be careful not to press too hard; you want the potatoes to smash but still hold together. - Brush with Butter and Oil:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and olive oil. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the smashed potatoes with this mixture, ensuring each potato is well covered. This will help them become ultra crispy during roasting. - Season the Potatoes:
Sprinkle the potatoes with 3/4 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. You can adjust the seasoning to taste, but these measurements provide a balanced flavor. - Roasting:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Place the baking sheet with the smashed potatoes in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the roasting time, use a spatula to carefully flip the potatoes to ensure even crisping on both sides.
Finishing Touches
Once the Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes have roasted to perfection, it’s time to add the finishing touches. These final steps will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.
Garnishing
After removing the potatoes from the oven, allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This will help them crisp up even more. For an optional garnish, sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the top of the potatoes. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside your favorite main courses like grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- As an Appetizer: Pair with a dipping sauce such as garlic aioli, sour cream, or a tangy ketchup.
- Topped with Cheese: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot potatoes and let it melt. Cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella are great options.
These crispy delights are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still hot and crunchy. However, if you have leftovers, they can be reheated in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Storage and Reheating
To keep your Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, follow these simple reheating instructions to maintain their crispiness.
Reheating Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). - Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the leftover potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. There’s no need to add extra oil or butter, as the potatoes will crisp up on their own. - Reheat:
Bake the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes
Achieving the perfect Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes involves a few key tips and tricks that can make all the difference. Follow these guidelines to ensure your potatoes turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
- Small Potatoes: For the crispiest results, use small potatoes like baby Yukon Golds or new potatoes. Their smaller size and thin skin make them ideal for smashing and roasting.
- Even Cooking: If using medium-sized potatoes, try to choose ones of similar size to ensure even cooking.
Proper Boiling
- Salt the Water: Adding salt to the boiling water helps to season the potatoes from the inside out, enhancing their flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Be sure not to overcook the potatoes during boiling. They should be tender but not falling apart, which makes them easier to smash without breaking apart completely.
Smashed Potato Technique
- Gentle Pressure: When smashing the potatoes, use gentle pressure to avoid mashing them completely. A potato masher or fork works well for this, but you can also use the bottom of a glass.
- Even Layer: Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast evenly and get crispy on all sides.
Maximizing Crispiness
- Generous Butter and Oil: Don’t skimp on the melted butter and olive oil mixture. This combination helps to create the crispy exterior that makes these potatoes so irresistible.
- High Oven Temperature: Roasting at a high temperature (220°C / 430°F) is key to achieving that golden, crispy crust. Be sure your oven is fully preheated before putting the potatoes in.
These tips and tricks will help you make the most delicious Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes that are sure to impress.
Mastering the art of Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes opens up a world of delicious possibilities. These crispy delights are not only a perfect side dish but also a versatile snack or appetizer. With their golden exterior and fluffy interior, they offer a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best things about Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer them simply seasoned or topped with cheese, herbs, or even bacon bits, these potatoes can be adapted to any meal or occasion.
Enjoying Your Culinary Creation
The key to enjoying these potatoes is to serve them fresh and hot. The crispy texture is best right out of the oven, so gather your friends and family around and dig in. Pair them with your favorite main dishes, or serve them as a standalone treat with a variety of dipping sauces.
Final Thoughts
With this recipe, you now have all the tips and techniques needed to make perfect Ultra Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Remember to follow the steps carefully, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and seasonings. These potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy making and devouring these crispy, flavorful potatoes. Happy cooking!