Occasionally I am goign to make a post like today's Not technically a recipe, but more of a technique I suppose. It still qualifies in my mind, and since this is my blog, it counts! lol
Roast Potatoes to Die for!
I realize many of you might just have the "wtf" look right now. Yes, roast potatoes are simple. But after watching a few different shows and a few experiments of my own, this is what I have come up with. Lets start with the potatoes. I prefer Yukon Gold, but many white potatoes will work as well. Something not overly juicy preferably. I also do not peel mine, but you are more than welcome to.
Now, basic roasting of veg states, toss in a little oil with some seasoning, roast at very high heat on a well heated pan. The problem is, potatoes are a bit harder than other veg, and tend to not cook through in high heat in a short time. Also, one of the things I enjoy about other roasted veg, is all the little browned bits they get due to their irregular surfaces. So, I propose to kill 2 birds with one stone.
Cube your potatoes into ½" or smaller pieces. Fill a pot with enough water to cover the potatoes, add in a heavy pinch of salt and 1-4 cloves of diced garlic. Bring to a boil. Now is when you have to pay attention. I usually boil my potatoes for 7-12 minutes. You want them JUST starting to soften. You want the edges of the potatoes to crumble slightly. Pour into a strainer and let them drain to the point they begin to dry. While your potatoes are draining and drying, cover a cookie sheet or ½ sheet pan in aluminum foil and put it on the upper middle rack of your oven (not the very top). Set the oven to 475. You will need a large bowl to toss the potatoes. Place the potatoes in the bowl, add enough oil to coat well, usually 2-4 tbl depending on the amount of potatoes. Add salt, pepper, Mrs. Dash, garlic, lemon, dill or whatever you prefer on your potatoes. Potatoes are the flavour velcro of the kitchen. Toss to coat evenly. As you toss you should get little bits of potato flaked off. That's good, those bits will brown faster becoming mondo flavour. Place on your preheated baking sheet and roast for 10-20 minutes, or until the potatoes brown nicely and are fully cooked.
top with a little butter and serve!
