# Crunchy, Crispy Smashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Potato Dish
If you’re a fan of potatoes, this recipe is set to become your top choice! Envision fluffy, creamy, and tender potatoes inside, complemented by a wonderfully crunchy exterior. Smashed potatoes transcend being merely a side dish; they can serve as a tasty snack by themselves. Let’s explore the realm of crunchy, crispy smashed potatoes!
## The Affection for Potatoes
Potatoes are frequently celebrated as the quintessential comfort food, and rightly so. Their adaptability allows them to excel in numerous recipes, but smashed potatoes particularly resonate with many. These golden, crispy morsels of potato delight are ideal for any event, whether you’re serving them alongside a meal or savoring them as a snack.
## What Exactly Are Smashed Potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are the hearty relatives of fries. They deliver all the crispy satisfaction of fries but with a distinctive twist. The technique of smashing the potatoes generates a variety of textures, allowing more surface area to become crispy. The outcome? A delightful contrast between the crunchy shell and the tender, fluffy inside.
## How to Prepare Crispy Smashed Potatoes
The secret to obtaining that perfect crispiness lies in the cooking method. Here’s how you can create your crispy smashed potatoes:
1. **Boil** baby potatoes in salted water until they are soft.
2. **Drain** and allow the potatoes to dry in a colander for around 5 minutes.
3. **Toss** the potatoes with oil and a sprinkle of salt.
4. **Arrange** the potatoes on a baking sheet and smash them using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher.
5. **Bake** at 450°F for 20-25 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
6. **Savor!**
Our preferred method of enjoying smashed potatoes is to drizzle them with scallion oil and add a dash of chili crisp for an extra zing!
## Ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
To create the most delicious crispy smashed potatoes, you’ll require:
– **Baby Potatoes**: These are ideal for their creamy consistency. Feel free to choose any color you prefer!
– **Neutral Oil with High Smoke Point**: Canola, grapeseed, or sunflower oil is perfect for high-temperature roasting.
– **Sea Salt**: A sprinkle of flaky salt boosts the flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.
– **Herbs**: Fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or chives can enhance the dish. Sprinkle them on top post-baking.
## Ways to Serve Smashed Potatoes
Smashed potatoes can be served in several delightful ways:
– **As a Snack**: Enjoy them hot from the oven.
– **As an Appetizer**: Pair with your favorite dipping sauces.
– **As a Side Dish**: Complement them with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or salads.
### Alternative Cooking Methods
If you’d rather use an air fryer or stovetop, here’s how to prepare them:
– **Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes**: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the lightly oiled smashed potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they turn crispy.
– **Stovetop Smashed Potatoes**: After smashing, fry the potatoes in a cast iron skillet with oil over medium heat until crispy, flipping once.
## Conclusion
Crispy smashed potatoes are a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a perfect mix of textures and flavors. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or as a side dish, they are guaranteed to wow your guests. So gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and treat yourself to the delightful experience of smashed potatoes. Happy cooking!
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### Recipe Summary
**Servings**: 4
**Prep Time**: 10 minutes
**Cook Time**: 30 minutes
**Total Time**: 40 minutes
#### Ingredients:
– 1.5 lb baby potatoes
– 4 tbsp neutral oil (divided)
– Sea salt to taste
– Fresh herbs of your choice (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Boil the potatoes in salted water for 20 minutes.