Gordon Ramsay-Style Crispy Christmas Roast Potatoes
Total Time:1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
2.5 lbs Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes, peeled and halved
1/2 cup olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
1 tbsp semolina or all-purpose flour
4 cloves garlic, smashed with the skin left on
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions
Start by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into uniform, medium-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil and let them simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want the outsides to be tender while the centers remain firm. This step is crucial for creating that fluffy interior we all love.
Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute so the steam can escape. This drying process is vital for crispiness. Place the potatoes back into the pot, sprinkle with semolina or flour, and put the lid on. Give the pot a vigorous shake. You want the edges of the potatoes to look fuzzy and roughened up, as these bits will become the crunchiest parts once roasted.
While the potatoes are boiling, pour your oil or butter into a large, sturdy roasting tray. Place the tray in an oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the oil get shimmering hot for at least 5 to 10 minutes. Using hot oil ensures the potatoes sizzle the moment they hit the pan, preventing them from absorbing too much grease and becoming soggy.
Carefully pull the hot tray out of the oven and add the potatoes in a single layer. Be cautious as the oil may splutter. Turn each potato to coat it thoroughly in the hot fat. Roast them in the oven for about 30 minutes, or until they start to turn a light golden brown color.
Remove the tray from the oven and add the smashed garlic cloves and rosemary sprigs. Use a spatula to turn the potatoes again, ensuring the herbs and garlic are distributed. Return the tray to the oven for another 15 to 20 minutes. Continue roasting until the potatoes are a deep, golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Season with a final sprinkle of sea salt before serving.
