These Crispy Roasted Potatoes are the ultimate side dish, combining the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Infused with duck fat, rosemary, and roasted garlic, this recipe elevates humble potatoes into a gourmet treat. Whether paired with a holiday roast or a casual weeknight meal, these golden potatoes are sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 pounds yellow potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt, plus extra to taste
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ cup duck fat (substitute: olive oil, beef tallow, ghee, or avocado oil)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 whole head garlic, top trimmed
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (approximately 2 sprigs)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (substitute: grass-fed butter)
- ¼ teaspoon flakey sea salt, for finishing
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
- Place a large, empty roasting pan in the oven and preheat it to 450°F (232°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch. Add them to a large stockpot and cover with cold water.
- Add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and baking soda to the water. Set the pot over high heat and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are just fork-tender and the edges begin to flake, about 25 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them dry fully in the colander.
- Prepare the Roasting Pan
- Remove the preheated roasting pan from the oven, add the duck fat, and let it melt.
- Shake the potatoes in the colander to rough up their edges, then carefully add them to the roasting pan.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and gently toss to coat. Nestle the head of garlic (cut side down) into the pan.
- Roast the Potatoes
- Return the roasting pan to the oven and cook, tossing the potatoes every 20 minutes, until they are deeply golden brown and crispy all over, approximately 55 to 60 minutes.
- Prepare the Garlic-Rosemary Mixture
- Remove the garlic from the pan and push out the roasted cloves. Combine the garlic, chopped rosemary, and olive oil in a bowl.
- Use a fork to mash everything together into a paste.
- Finish the Potatoes
- Add the garlic-rosemary mixture to the roasting pan and toss the potatoes to coat.
- Return the pan to the oven and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the rosemary is fragrant and the garlic is lightly toasted.
- Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with flakey sea salt as desired. Transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (Approximately 6 Servings):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Potassium: 620 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Dietary Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Vitamin A: 2 IU
- Vitamin C: 20 mg
- Calcium: 25 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that perfectly balances indulgence and flavor with a crisp texture and herbaceous aroma.
The Science Behind Crispy Potatoes
Achieving the perfect crisp on roasted potatoes requires a combination of techniques and ingredients. One of the key steps is boiling the potatoes with baking soda. This creates an alkaline environment, breaking down the surface of the potatoes and allowing them to develop a rough, starchy exterior. This texture is essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust during roasting.
Another critical factor is the high roasting temperature. By preheating the oven and the roasting pan, the potatoes start cooking the moment they hit the pan, sealing in moisture and creating a crunchy outer layer. The duck fat or alternative oil provides the necessary moisture and flavor to enhance this process, ensuring evenly crispy potatoes.
Why Duck Fat?
Duck fat is a traditional cooking fat prized for its rich, savory flavor and ability to create an exceptionally crispy texture. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for roasting, as it can withstand the high temperatures required for this recipe without breaking down. The subtle umami notes it imparts elevate the flavor of the potatoes, giving them a gourmet quality that’s hard to achieve with other fats.
If duck fat isn’t readily available, alternatives like olive oil, ghee, or beef tallow can be used. While these substitutes may not replicate the exact flavor profile of duck fat, they still contribute to the potatoes’ crispiness and overall richness.
The Role of Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic is a game-changer in this dish, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile. As garlic roasts, its natural sugars caramelize, creating a sweet and nutty taste that balances the savory notes of the potatoes and duck fat.
In this recipe, the garlic is roasted alongside the potatoes, allowing its flavors to meld with the fat and seasonings. Once roasted, the cloves are mashed into a paste with fresh rosemary and olive oil, creating a fragrant mixture that coats the potatoes during the final stage of cooking. This step ensures every bite is infused with aromatic, garlicky goodness.
The Magic of Rosemary
Rosemary is the herb of choice for these Crispy Roasted Potatoes, providing a piney, slightly peppery flavor that complements the richness of the duck fat and roasted garlic. Its robust aroma enhances the overall sensory experience of the dish, making it a perfect choice for both casual meals and special occasions.
Fresh rosemary is preferred for its vibrant flavor and aroma, but dried rosemary can be used in a pinch. To maximize its impact, the herb is finely chopped and added toward the end of the roasting process. This technique preserves its flavor and prevents it from burning in the high heat of the oven.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Roasted Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Yellow potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, are ideal for this recipe because they have a balance of waxiness and starchiness. This combination ensures a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior.
- Preheat the Pan: A hot roasting pan is essential for jumpstarting the cooking process and achieving an even crust.
- Don’t Skip the Roughing-Up Step: Shaking the boiled potatoes in a colander creates a starchy surface that’s key to achieving a golden, crispy exterior.
- Toss Gently: When coating the potatoes with the garlic-rosemary mixture, toss gently to avoid breaking them apart while ensuring even distribution of the flavors.
- Adjust for Dietary Preferences: If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, olive oil or avocado oil can be used instead of duck fat for a vegetarian or plant-based alternative.
Pairing Suggestions
Crispy Roasted Potatoes are versatile and pair well with a wide range of dishes. For a holiday feast, they complement roasted meats like turkey, beef, or lamb. For a more casual setting, serve them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty vegetable stew.
To complete the meal, consider pairing these potatoes with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, which balances their richness. For beverages, a medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or a crisp lager works beautifully with their savory flavors.
Health Benefits of Crispy Roasted Potatoes
While this dish leans into indulgence with its use of duck fat and roasted garlic, it still offers several nutritional benefits:
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, they provide energy and support heart health.
- Duck Fat: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats, similar to olive oil, which can support cholesterol balance.
- Garlic: Packed with antioxidants and compounds that support the immune system and heart health.
- Rosemary: Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, adding both flavor and health benefits.
By choosing high-quality ingredients and controlling the amount of added salt and fat, you can enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet.
A Crowd-Pleaser for Every Occasion
One of the best things about Crispy Roasted Potatoes is their universal appeal. Their golden, crunchy exterior and herbaceous aroma make them a hit with both adults and children. Whether served at a dinner party or a casual family meal, they’re guaranteed to be a favorite at the table.
For those who like to experiment, the recipe can be adapted to suit different flavor profiles. Add spices like smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky twist, or finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of indulgence.
Conclusion
Crispy Roasted Potatoes are a timeless side dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. With their rich flavors of duck fat, roasted garlic, and rosemary, they offer a gourmet experience that elevates any meal.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly versatile, making it a staple in both everyday cooking and special occasions. Whether you’re serving them with a holiday roast or a simple weeknight dinner, these golden potatoes will leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to try them.