How to turn the humble potato into a star on the plate
The humble potato is not just a basic side dish; it is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. From the classic roast to more innovative creations, the potato is a true chameleon when it comes to adaptability. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, there is always a new way to elevate this staple into a star on your plate.
Love them roasted? Here's the perfect recipe!
Golden, crispy, fluffy - that's the dream for roasted potatoes. Start with the right kind of spud - Sebago, King Edward, or Dutch Cream are best due to their high starch content. Parboiling the potatoes softens the inside while roughing up the edges helps with the crisping. Toss the parboiled potatoes in olive oil, salt, and herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, garlic, paprika, or cumin. Set your oven to 220°C and roast until golden and crispy. The result? Potatoes that are so tasty, they will steal the show!
The art of the mash
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food, but there's more to this dish than just mashing some boiled spuds. To create a silky, luxurious mash, choose a floury potato variety like Russet or King Edward. These potatoes break down easily and create a smoother texture.
After boiling the potatoes until tender, mash them using a potato ricer or food mill for the best results. These tools prevent overworking the potatoes, which can make them feel gluey. If you don't have these tools, a traditional masher works well, but be gentle.
For a creamy mash, add warmed milk or cream and plenty of butter. The key is to add these gradually, folding them in gently. For a richer flavour, try infusing the milk with garlic, rosemary, or even a bay leaf before adding it to the potatoes. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a crack of black pepper.
Add roasted garlic, truffle oil, or grated parmesan cheese to elevate the traditional mash. These additions can transform the basic mash to gourmet levels, making it a star side dish or a standalone meal.
Crisps and chips, anyone?
Potato chips are a snack favourite, but homemade versions surpass anything bought in a bag. Making your crisps is easier than you might think and allows you to experiment with different flavour combinations.
Start by slicing your potatoes as thinly as possible. Then, soak the slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which will help them crisp up nicely. After soaking, dry the slices thoroughly.
Fry the potato slices in batches in hot oil (around 180°C) until golden brown. Drain them on paper towels and season immediately with salt and any other seasonings you fancy. Try different flavours, such as sea salt and vinegar, smoky paprika, rosemary, and garlic.
Baked potato wedges are a great alternative if you prefer something more substantial. Cut the potatoes into wedges, toss them in olive oil and your favourite spices, and bake at 200°C until golden and crispy. These are perfect for dipping into aioli, salsa, or homemade tomato sauce.
Presenting the main event!
Potatoes are a cost-effective dinner table staple, and making them the meal's centrepiece is easy. One way to achieve this is by whipping up a potato gratin. This dish layers thinly sliced potatoes with cream, cheese, and garlic, then bake until golden and bubbling. The result is a rich, indulgent dish that pairs beautifully with a simple salad or steamed greens.
For a lighter option, consider making a potato and leek soup. This classic dish is simple yet satisfying. It's made by simmering potatoes and leeks in broth until tender and then blending until smooth. A splash of cream adds richness, while a garnish of chives or crispy bacon provides texture and flavour.
Versatility is your friend
The potato's versatility is its greatest strength. Whether you roast, mash, fry, or bake it, there's always a way to make this humble vegetable shine. By experimenting with different cooking methods, flavours, and ingredients, you can transform the potato into a dish that will keep people coming back for more.
Next time you plan a meal, don't just consider potatoes a side dish. As we've already highlighted, the potato deserves the spotlight.
Perfect on a budget
The potato is your best friend when it comes to budget-friendly meals. They are versatile, affordable, and filling too! Adding potatoes to your regular meal planning can reduce your grocery bill and even contribute to your rainy-day fund.
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