Hasselback Potatoes: Easy Cooking Instructions

Looking for a delicious and visually stunning side dish? Hasselback potatoes are a perfect choice! These crispy, buttery potatoes are sliced thinly but not all the way through, creating a beautiful fan-like appearance. The edges get wonderfully crispy while the insides remain tender and flavorful. Let’s dive into this easy and impressive recipe!

Ingredients List

For the Potatoes

• 8 small floury potatoes (approx. 100g/3.5oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp paprika

To Serve

• Fresh thyme leaves
• Maldon salt

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare Hasselback potatoes, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

1. Sharp Knife: For making precise cuts in the potatoes.
2. Cutting Board: To stabilize the potatoes while slicing.
3. Wooden Spoon or Chopsticks: To prevent slicing through the potatoes entirely.
4. Basting Brush: For applying the butter and oil mixture.
5. Baking Sheet: To bake the potatoes.
6. Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Preparing the Potatoes

The key to perfect Hasselback potatoes lies in the careful slicing technique that creates the signature fan effect.

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures the potatoes become crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Place one potato on the cutting board and position it between two chopsticks or the handles of a wooden spoon. These will act as a guide, preventing you from slicing all the way through the potato.
3. Slice the Potatoes:
   Using a sharp knife, make thin slices across the width of the potato, about 1/8 inch apart. The chopsticks or spoon handles will stop the knife from cutting through, leaving the base intact. This technique creates the fan-like appearance.
4. Repeat:
   Repeat the slicing process for all the potatoes. Take your time to ensure even slices, as this will help them cook evenly and look beautiful.

The prepared potatoes should have thin, uniform slices that spread slightly, creating space for the flavorful butter and seasoning to penetrate.

Seasoning and Baking the Potatoes

Now that the potatoes are beautifully sliced, it’s time to season them and bake them to crispy perfection. The combination of butter, olive oil, and spices will infuse the potatoes with rich flavors.

1. Prepare the Seasoning Mixture:
   In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Brush the Potatoes:
   Place the sliced potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Using a basting brush, generously brush the butter and oil mixture over the potatoes, ensuring it gets between the slices. The mixture will seep into the cuts, adding flavor and helping the potatoes crisp up.
3. Bake the Potatoes:
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the potatoes from the oven and brush them again with the remaining butter mixture. This additional layer of butter helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
4. Continue Baking:
   Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden, and the insides are tender. The total baking time should be around 50-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.
5. Check for Doneness:
   To check if the potatoes are done, insert a fork or skewer into the center of a potato. It should slide in easily, indicating that the inside is tender.

The potatoes should be beautifully golden and crispy on the outside, with a tender and flavorful interior. The butter and spices will have infused the potatoes, creating a delicious and aromatic dish.

Serving the Hasselback Potatoes

With the Hasselback potatoes perfectly baked, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious side dish. The crispy edges and tender insides make them an irresistible addition to any meal.

1. Garnish with Fresh Thyme:
   Once the potatoes are out of the oven, garnish them with fresh thyme leaves. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of aromatic flavor that complements the crispy, buttery potatoes.
2. Sprinkle with Maldon Salt:
   Just before serving, sprinkle a pinch of Maldon salt over the potatoes. This finishing salt adds a delicate crunch and enhances the flavors of the dish. Be sure to sprinkle it sparingly, as Maldon salt has a strong, salty flavor.
3. Serving Suggestions:
   Hasselback potatoes are versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of melted cheese for added richness.
4. Presentation:
   Arrange the potatoes on a serving platter, spacing them out to showcase their beautiful fan-like appearance. The golden, crispy edges and vibrant thyme garnish make for an eye-catching presentation.

The Hasselback potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed. Their combination of crispy, flavorful edges and soft, tender interiors makes them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Storing and Reheating Hasselback Potatoes

If you have any leftover Hasselback potatoes, storing and reheating them properly will help maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

1. Refrigeration:
   Allow the potatoes to cool completely before storing them. Place the cooled potatoes in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing:
   For longer storage, you can freeze the potatoes. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

1. Oven:
   To reheat the potatoes and restore their crispiness, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method is best for maintaining the texture of the potatoes.
2. Microwave:
   For a quicker option, you can reheat the potatoes in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a microwave-safe cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. Note that the potatoes may lose some of their crispiness with this method.

Enjoying Leftovers

Leftover Hasselback potatoes can be enjoyed as a side dish or repurposed in creative ways. You can chop them up and add them to a breakfast hash, mix them into a salad, or use them as a base for a loaded potato dish with your favorite toppings.

Conclusion

Hasselback potatoes are a delightful and elegant side dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With their crispy edges, tender insides, and flavorful seasoning, they are sure to impress your family and guests. Whether served alongside a main course or enjoyed on their own, these potatoes are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.

So, roll up your sleeves and try making these beautiful Hasselback potatoes. They’re a fantastic way to elevate your potato game and add a touch of sophistication to your dinner table. Enjoy every crispy, buttery bite!