Name: Perfect Roast Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds small baby red potatoes (halved); Water (for boiling); 1-2 tablespoons ghee (or clarified butter); Kosher salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste)

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the deliciousness of perfectly roasted potatoes. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are the ideal side dish for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. The secret to achieving that golden-brown crust while maintaining a tender interior lies within a few simple steps and quality ingredients. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into how to make the most Perfect Roast Potatoes using just a handful of ingredients.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of Perfect Roast Potatoes comes from the combination of high heat and the right kind of fat. Using ghee or clarified butter not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that sought-after crispy texture. Additionally, the size and type of potatoes play a crucial role; baby red potatoes are ideal because they are waxy and hold their shape well while offering a creamy interior. Boiling them before roasting ensures they develop a fluffy inside that contrasts beautifully with the crispy skin.

The Essentials

To whip up a batch of Perfect Roast Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

2 pounds small baby red potatoes, halved
Water for boiling
1-2 tablespoons ghee, or clarified butter
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Appliances & Accessories

To make your potato roasting experience seamless, here are the essential tools you’ll need:

Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
Colander: To drain the potatoes after boiling.
Baking sheet: Preferably rimmed, to catch any drips and ensure even cooking.
Spatula: For flipping the potatoes halfway through roasting.
Oven: Preheated to the perfect temperature for roasting.

How to Prepare Perfect Roast Potatoes

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making Perfect Roast Potatoes.

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Begin by placing the halved baby red potatoes into a large pot and covering them with water. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt to the water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are just tender but still firm enough to hold their shape.

Step 2: Drain and Dry

Once cooked, carefully drain the potatoes in a colander. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to steam dry. This step is crucial as it helps to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispier finish when roasted.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

While the potatoes are drying, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that crispy exterior.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet

On a rimmed baking sheet, add the ghee. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes until the ghee is hot and shimmering.

Step 5: Season the Potatoes

Carefully transfer the dried potatoes onto the hot baking sheet. Drizzle with additional ghee if desired, and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss gently to ensure each potato is well-coated.

Step 6: Roast Them

Spread the potatoes out in a single layer, cut-side down. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through with a spatula to ensure even browning. You want them to be golden and crispy on all sides.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once they are beautifully golden brown and crispy, remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your Perfect Roast Potatoes alongside your favorite main dishes!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you’re looking to modify the recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions, consider these alternatives:

Ghee: Substitute with olive oil for a vegan option.
Kosher salt: Use sea salt if preferred.
Baby red potatoes: Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes also work well.

Problems & Prevention

Even the simplest recipes can sometimes encounter issues. Here are common problems and how to avoid them:

Potatoes not crispy: Ensure they are well dried after boiling and use enough fat.
Burnt potatoes: Keep an eye on them during roasting, as oven temperatures can vary.
Uneven cooking: Make sure the potatoes are in a single layer and not crowded on the baking sheet.
Flavorless potatoes: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it makes a big difference!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though we doubt you will), here are some storage tips:

Allow the roasted potatoes to cool completely before storing.
Transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my roast potatoes soggy?

Soggy roast potatoes may occur if they are not dried properly after boiling or if there isn’t enough fat to help them crisp up. Make sure to drain well and use a generous amount of ghee or oil.

How do I make sure my potatoes are cooked through?

Boiling the potatoes until just tender before roasting is key. You can also test for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft inside.

Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can boil and dry the potatoes a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and roast them right before serving for a quick and easy side dish.

What’s the best type of potato for roasting?

Waxy potatoes, like baby red or Yukon Gold, are ideal as they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets for roasting.

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The Takeaway

Making Perfect Roast Potatoes is all about the right technique and a few quality ingredients. With just baby red potatoes, water, ghee, salt, and pepper, you can create a side that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these roast potatoes are sure to impress and satisfy. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best roast potatoes you’ve ever made!