Crispy and Flavorful: Perfect Roast Potatoes Recipe
Ladies and Gents! Today, I am here to introduce you to a recipe that will transform the way you see one of the most beloved British staples – roasted potatoes! I present to you – Proper Roast Potatoes – English Style Recipe. This recipe of mine is inspired by a classic, traditionally English roast dinner. As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I have learned to perfect this dish over the years, and trust me; It’s worth sharing with the world.
Roasted potatoes are an essential part of any British roast dinner. Crispy on the outside yet fluffy on the inside, it’s a comforting side dish with subtle seasoning that will have you coming back for seconds. However, making a perfect roast potato is not as easy as it looks. After trying various techniques and adding my own twist, I’ve developed a method that ensures crispy roast potatoes every time.
By following my recipe and tips, you will be on your way to achieving the perfect traditionally English roast potatoes. And let’s face it; there is nothing quite like a golden brown, crispy potato served alongside tender roasts or chicken. Don’t worry about calculating timing or fussing over small details; leave that to me. Get ready to make perfect, crispy roasties and impress your friends and family.
So why wait? Let’s gather your ingredients and start making these delicious Proper Roast Potatoes-English Style Recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Folks, let me tell you something. When it comes to a perfect traditionally English roast dinner, there’s one thing that cannot be overlooked – the roast potatoes! Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside and golden brown all around. And let me tell you, this recipe for roast potatoes is unlike any other.
If you’re feeling adventurous and haven’t tried English roast potatoes before, then you’re in for a treat. These potatoes are not your ordinary spuds. They are drenched in beef drippings and roasted until crispy – perfect to complement any type of meat or poultry. This flavour combo is absolutely divine, and I promise you’ll be salivating from the moment it touches your taste buds.
But why will you love this recipe? Let’s break it down.
Firstly, let’s talk about the ingredient list. It includes Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, olive oil or beef drippings, salt and nothing else- simple yet packing a punch of flavor that will make your tastebuds dance.
Next up is the recipe how-to which is easy peasy lemon squeezy! Slice those taters into chunks and boil for 3 minutes so they’re partially cooked; preheat the oven at gas 6 and drizzle some olive oil in a large baking dish before adding the boiled potatoes; don’t forget to season it with salt; pop it in the oven for 45 minutes until crispy roast perfection has been achieved!
And if you ever have any trouble perfecting these english roasted potatoes there are substitutes and variations that include using Irish potatoes instead of Maris Piper for variation.
Trust me when I say that these perfect traditionally English roast potato beauties will become your signature side – perfect at any event especially Christmas dinners – just like Ina Garten’s Crispy Potatoes are her specialty!
In conclusion folks, believe me when I say my dear friend Emily’s recipe for English Style Roast Potatoes will be a game-changer for any roast dinner, holiday meal or any day that gets whisked away with this crispy goodness.
Ingredient List
For the perfect traditionally English roast potato, we need to use the right type of potato. I recommend using Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes. These varieties are perfect for roasting as they hold their shape during cooking and develop a delicious crispy exterior.
- 1 kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes
- 100 ml beef drippings or olive oil
- Salt to taste
We also need to have some beef drippings or olive oil. Opting for beef drippings is what makes these roasted potatoes traditionally English, but olive oil works just as well if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Make sure to have plenty of salt on hand too – this humble ingredient is key to achieving those crispy golden brown exteriors that make English roasted potatoes so irresistible!
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get down to business – making the perfect English-style roast potatoes – this is where the rubber really hits the road. Follow these easy steps and you’ll be sure to have a delicious and quintessentially British side dish that would make even the Queen herself salivate.
Ingredients
To make around six portions of crispy, golden brown roasties, you will need:
- 1 1/2 kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes
- 100 g beef dripping or 8 tbsp olive oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 200º C or gas mark 6.
-
Bring a large pot of salted water (about a tablespoon per liter of water) to the boil.
-
Peel your potatoes and cut them into evenly-sized chunks, roughly the size of a golf ball.
-
Add the potatoes to the boiling water and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until they are almost tender but not falling apart.
-
Meanwhile, in another roasting tin, heat up your beef dripping or olive oil in the oven for around five minutes.
-
As soon as your potatoes are ready, drain them into a colander and give them a little shake to roughen up their edges.
-
Carefully add them to the hot fat in one layer (If you’re using olive oil, you may need to use less because it has lower smoking point.)
-
Toss gently with a wooden spoon or spatula so they are evenly coated with fat and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
-
Roast in the preheated oven for around 45 minutes, turning every 15 minutes until crispy roast on both sides.
-
Remove from the oven and transfer them onto a warmed serving dish.
-
Serve immediately while piping hot and enjoy the crispy, golden crunchy bits that form during the cooking process.
That’s it! You’ve just learned how to make perfect traditionally English roast potatoes, thanks to my recipe. The balance of texture and flavour makes these roasted potatoes an excellent addition to any Christmas dinner, Sunday roast or any other feast.
Substitutions and Variations
Well, well, well! If you’re feeling adventurous, friends, let’s talk about some substitutions and variations for our perfect traditionally English-style roast potatoes.
First of all, let me tell you that we make perfect roast potatoes because we use the best kind – Maris Piper or King Edward. But, if you can’t find them or prefer to experiment with other potatoes varieties, you can substitute them with another good roasting potato such as the Irish Rooster Potatoes. Now, if you want to go fancier, go ahead and try it with some Yukon Gold potatoes (they may not be as golden brown but still delicious!).
For those who are trying to limit their intake of animal products or simply prefer a lighter option, swap out the beef drippings with olive oil. Though I must remind you that the British Roast Potatoes recipe tastes best when made with beef drippings- nothing beats their complimentary flavors.
Now for a flavour combo like no other -try adding some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme alongside garlic before tossing in the oven. You could also sprinkle on some paprika for a spicy kick or cayenne pepper for an even hotter version.
For those celebrating Christmas dinner à la British style and fancy impressing your guests beyond measure-why not throw in some perfectly cooked veggies like Brussels sprouts? Wowzers! And if that feels like too much work on a hectic day then refer to Barefoot Contessa Ina Garten’s recipe where she adds lemon zest to create crispy potatoes roasted in olive oil and served alongside lip-smacking prime rib roast.
Whatever substitutions or variations resonate with you; there’s no need to worry about changing the cooking time as this recipe works with all varieties once they’re boiled for 10 minutes and cooked at gas 6 for 45 minutes.
With these exciting alterations available on this recipe food enthusiasts can undoubtedly make their favorite crispy roast potatoes every single time.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have created the perfect traditionally English roast potatoes, it’s time to serve and pair them with the right dish. These perfectly crispy roast potatoes bring a bold flavour combo to any meal, whether it’s a British Roast or a casual dinner.
Serving these English style roasted potatoes is simple. You can add a sprinkle of salt on top for extra flavour or serve them plain, letting their natural potato taste satisfy your senses. These potatoes mix well with any protein, from beef drippings to chicken and lamb, making them the perfect side dish for your Christmas dinner or Sunday roast.
Pair these traditionally English roast potatoes with other traditional British dishes such as Yorkshire pudding, steamed vegetables and gravy. You can even enjoy these potatoes with fish and chips or other night-time snacks.
Crispy roasted potatoes also provide a great vegan option. Pair them with cooked veggies for an easy and filling meal. Olive oil enhances their flavour, so if you are looking to keep your dish vegetarian or vegan, simply use olive oil instead of beef drippings.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy these perfect English roasted potatoes is with Irn Bru (a Scottish soda), creating a delicious flavour combination that is sure to impress your friends and family.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing these crispy roast potatoes!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah, the beauty of make-ahead dishes! I love them because they give me freedom and flexibility in the kitchen, especially when preparing for a big meal like Christmas dinner. The good news is that these Proper Roast Potatoes are perfect for making ahead of time.
To make these potatoes ahead, simply follow the recipe and let them cool completely once they’re roasted to golden brown perfection. Transfer them to an airtight container or a large zip-lock bag and keep them in the fridge for up to two days.
When you’re ready to serve them, preheat your oven to gas 6 (200°C/400°F) and arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reheat them until they’re crispy and hot all over, for about 10-15 minutes.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven just like you did before or microwave them until heated through. However, please note that microwaving may make them slightly softer than reheating in the oven.
I have one final tip – if you’re looking to freeze these delicious potatoes, be sure to cool them completely first before storing in an airtight container or freezer-friendly bags. Properly stored, they will keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply defrost and follow the previous steps of how to cook and enjoy this perfect traditionally English dish!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now, let me share with you some of my tips for making the perfect traditionally English roast potatoes. These tips have been passed down from generations, and I guarantee they will take your crispy roast potatoes to the next level.
Firstly, the type of potato you choose is crucial. The Maris Piper and King Edward are perfect potatoes for this recipe. They have a high starch content which means they will become nice and crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.
Once you’ve chosen your potatoes, it’s time to prepare them. Ensure that they are washed properly and cut into roughly equal sizes, about 2-3 inches in length.
Next is boiling the potatoes. Bring a large pot of water (2 litres) to boil, add salt to taste, then add your potatoes. Boil your potatoes for 5-6 minutes until they are just starting to soften.
After boiling, drain the water from the pot then put it back on low heat. Allow any remaining moisture on the potatoes to dry out by letting them steam in the pot for a minute or two.
The next step is adding beef drippings or olive oil to the pot. Be sure not to overdo it with oil as it may lead to soggy rather than crispy roast potatoes! I recommend you use beef drippings if possible, but if not available, use olive oil.
After adding the oil or drippings, toss your boiled potatoes around vigorously until they are coated evenly. The idea is to give it a good stir without breaking down any edges where crispiness will be formed.
Now you’re ready for roasting. You can preheat your oven at gas mark 6 (200°C). Once preheated, place the coated potatoes on a baking dish ensuring that they are all in a single layer. Put them in the oven and roast for 45 minutes turning every 15 minutes.
Voilà! You now have the perfect traditionally English roast potatoes.
Lastly, don’t forget to sprinkle some salt on your crispy potatoes before serving. This simple step will elevate your flavor combo to another level.
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to make perfect roast potatoes, just like Emily English’s family recipe.
FAQ
Friends, let me clear up some common questions that you may have about this traditionally English recipe. These FAQs will help hone your cooking abilities and perfect your roast potato-making skills so that you can become a master of perfect crispy potatoes! So let’s jump into it!
Is it necessary to boil potatoes before roasting?
Parboiling the potatoes for a short duration plays a significant role in achieving that desired crispy texture on their roasted exterior. Without this preliminary boiling process, the outer skin of the potatoes tends to stay hard, making it difficult for the fat to penetrate and form a delicious crust during the roasting process.
How does Gordon Ramsay make perfect roast potatoes?
Let’s get started on roasting some scrumptious potatoes! Grab a tray and toss in the washed potatoes, along with some minced garlic and fresh rosemary. To ensure even cooking, make sure they are spread out in a single layer and nicely coated with the fat. Pop the tray in the oven and roast for around 40-45 minutes till they turn crispy, brown and irresistible. You don’t want to miss turning them every 15 minutes while they roast so that they cook evenly. Once they are done, season them with a dash of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper before serving.
What British potatoes are best for roasting?
Are you wondering which potato variety works best for that perfect crispy and fluffy roasted side dish? Look no further than Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, both of which are commonly found in the UK and are also easy to grow at home. If those are not available, Desiree potatoes are a close runner-up.
Why do you soak potatoes in water before roasting?
Before starting the cooking process, give the potatoes a cold water bath to eliminate the extra starch from the exterior. It’s crucial to get rid of the starch because it prevents the potatoes from becoming crispy, and it can transform into sugar, eventually leading to burning. You should soak the potatoes for a minimum of an hour to achieve optimal results.
What is the recipe for Ina Garten’s roasted potatoes?
Hey there, let’s get started on our tasty roasted potatoes! First things first, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Take some potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters. Get a bowl and toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic until the potatoes are well coated. Now, transfer the potatoes onto a sheet pan and spread them out so that they are evenly in a single layer. Pop the pan into the oven and let it roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Bottom Line
And there you have it, my fellow gastronomers: a recipe for perfect, traditionally English roast potatoes that will make your taste buds dance with delight. While there may be some variations that you can try, I wholeheartedly recommend sticking to this recipe for the most authentic and delicious results.
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I know how important it is to use only the finest ingredients and techniques to achieve the perfect roast potatoes. By following this recipe step-by-step, you will impress not only yourself but also your friends and family with your culinary prowess.
So, gather all the necessary ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking! Trust me; you won’t regret trying out this recipe for yourself. From Emily English to Barefoot Contessa’s Ina Garten – everyone loves crispy roast potatoes in their Christmas dinner. What are you waiting for? Give it a try today and share your English-style roasted potato recipe on social media!
Proper Roast Potatoes - English Style Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 -2 potato, per person choose a floury variety
- beef drippings or any oil, to hand
- salt, to taste
Instructions
- Peel potatoes and cut to preferred size (quarters work well). Put fat or oil into a heavy roasting pan, then into the oven where your joint is roasting, 190 degrees Celsius, until fat is very hot (at least 10 mins). Parboil potatoes for 5-7 mins in boiling water (salted if you wish) until potatoes are soft on the outside, but not cooked through. Drain well, reserving liquor for gravy later if you like. Return potatoes to empty saucepan, put lid on, shake vigorously until outside of potatoes are slightly broken up. This gives the extra yummy, super crunchy outside.
- Bring roasting tin out of the oven, and put on hot stove top to keep oil piping hot (or work really fast!). Pop potatoes into roasting pan, and coat in hot fat.
- Sprinkle with salt if you wish.
- Return to oven and cook for 40 mins or so, turning at least once, until potatoes are golden and very crispy.
- Yum!
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
None found
Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.