The Perfect Crispy Roast Potatoes

The ultimate roast potato is golden and crunchy on the outside, fluffy and soft on the inside. Follow this simple recipe to achieve perfection every time

Ingredients

(Serves 4 – 6)

• 1kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes (ideal for roasting)

• 3 tbsp goose fat or vegetable oil (for a vegetarian option)

• 1 tsp plain flour (optional, for extra crispiness)

• Salt (to taste)

• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for added aroma)

• 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed (optional)

Method

Choose the Right Potatoes:
Use a floury variety like Maris Piper or King Edward for the best texture

Prepare the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks. Aim for medium-sized pieces for the perfect balance between crispness and fluffiness.

Parboil the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 8 – 10 minutes until just tender but not falling apart. Drain well and let them steam dry in the colander for a couple of minutes.

Fluff Them Up:
Shake the drained potatoes in the colander gently to roughen their edges. This step is crucial for creating the crispy exterior.

Heat the Fat:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6. Add goose fat or oil to a large roasting tray and place it in the oven for 10 minutes to get it piping hot.

Coat the Potatoes:
Carefully remove the tray from the oven and tip the potatoes into the hot fat. Toss them well to ensure every piece is coated. Sprinkle with flour (if using) and season with salt.

Roast the Potatoes:
Spread the potatoes out in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Roast for 45 – 60 minutes, turning them halfway through for even crispiness.

Add Flavour (Optional):
For the final 10 – 15 minutes of cooking, add sprigs of rosemary or thyme and the crushed garlic cloves to infuse the potatoes with aromatic flavours.

Serve Immediately:
Once golden and crispy, remove the potatoes from the oven. Sprinkle with a little extra salt and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Use hot fat: Starting with preheated fat ensures the potatoes crisp up immediately when they hit the tray.

• Avoid overcrowding: Giving the potatoes space allows them to crisp evenly.

• Turn carefully: Use a spatula to flip them halfway without breaking the crust.

These roast potatoes are a guaranteed showstopper at any meal, whether it’s a Sunday roast or a festive feast. Enjoy!