Crispy smashed potatoes are a delicious and unique take on the classic potato side dish. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and a delightful blend of flavors, they make for an irresistible addition to any meal.
In this blog, we will guide you through the process of making crispy smashed potatoes, share tips for achieving the perfect texture, and provide ideas for seasonings and flavor combinations.
The Process of Making Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Creating crispy smashed potatoes involves boiling, flattening, and then roasting or frying the potatoes to achieve the perfect balance of crispy and tender. Here's a step-by-step guide to making this scrumptious side dish:
Choose the right potatoes: Small, waxy potatoes, such as baby or fingerling potatoes, work best for this dish, as they hold their shape well during cooking and smashing.
Boil the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and fill with enough water to cover them by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt, and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes, depending on their size.
Preheat the oven and prepare a baking sheet: While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Drain and let the potatoes cool: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them cool slightly until they're easy to handle.
Smash the potatoes: Place the cooked potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Using the flat bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it's about ½-inch thick. Be careful not to press too hard, or the potatoes may fall apart.
Season and add oil: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil or melted butter, and season them with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you'd like to use.
Roast the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy around the edges. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Tips for Making Perfect Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Be gentle when smashing: Press down on the potatoes just enough to flatten them without causing them to fall apart. This will ensure they maintain their shape while cooking.
Season generously: Don't be shy with your seasonings – the potatoes can handle a generous amount of salt, pepper, and other flavors.
Use a high smoke point oil: If you're roasting the potatoes at high temperatures, use an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, to prevent burning.
Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking: This ensures that both sides of the potatoes become evenly crispy and golden brown.
Flavor Combinations and Serving Ideas
Crispy smashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be customized with various seasonings and flavor combinations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Garlic and herb: Mix minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme with olive oil, and drizzle over the smashed potatoes before roasting.
Spicy: Sprinkle the potatoes with a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder for a spicy kick.
Parmesan and parsley: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the potatoes before roasting, and garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Lemon and dill: Drizzle the potatoes with a mixture of melted butter, lemon zest, and chopped dill for a zesty, refreshing twist.
Smoky barbecue: Toss the potatoes in your favorite barbecue spice blend, and serve them with a side of barbecue sauce for dipping.
Serving Ideas
Crispy smashed potatoes make a delicious side dish for a variety of main courses, such as grilled or roasted meats, fish, and poultry. They also pair well with hearty salads, soups, and stews. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a protein, a green vegetable, and a flavorful sauce or dip.
Final Thoughts
Crispy smashed potatoes are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic potato side dish. With their delectable combination of textures and the ability to customize them with your favorite seasonings, they're sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
By following our step-by-step guide and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating the perfect batch of crispy smashed potatoes that your friends and family will love.
