Melting Potatoes Recipe: A Comprehensive Guide

Melting potatoes, often described as a magical side dish, are beloved for their crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior. This dish combines the best of roasting and braising techniques to create a texture and flavor profile that’s hard to beat. Whether you're preparing a special family dinner or a holiday feast, melting potatoes are a perfect addition to any meal.

What Are Melting Potatoes?

Melting potatoes, sometimes referred to as fondant potatoes, originated from French cuisine and have gained popularity worldwide for their unique preparation and delicious results. Unlike traditional roasted potatoes, melting potatoes involve roasting thick slices of potatoes in a mixture of butter and oil, then adding broth towards the end of the cooking process. This method ensures the potatoes remain crispy on the outside while becoming incredibly tender inside​ (The Kitchn)​​ (Real Simple)​.

To learn more about this unique preparation, check out the best-ever melting potatoes recipe.

Ingredients Overview

To make melting potatoes, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a list along with some possible substitutions and variations:

• Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best. You can also try fingerling or purple potatoes for a twist.
• Butter: Adds a rich flavor and helps in browning.
• Oil: Olive oil or avocado oil are great choices.
• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth infuses the potatoes with additional flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or sage work well. Dried herbs can also be used if fresh are not available.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

For more detailed ingredient variations, visit the melting potatoes recipe by Katie Lee Biegel.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C).
• Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (optional) and cut them into 1-inch thick rounds.
• Mix the Coating: In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, oil, chopped herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Initial Roasting

• Arrange Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
• Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.

Adding Broth and Final Roast

• Add Broth: Pour chicken or vegetable broth into the baking dish with the potatoes.
• Continue Roasting: Roast for an additional 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the broth is mostly absorbed.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Melting potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs and a drizzle of the pan juices for extra flavor.

Variations and Enhancements

• Lemon Butter Melting Potatoes: Add lemon zest and juice to the butter mixture for a bright, zesty flavor​ (The Kitchn)​.
• Cheesy Melting Potatoes: Sprinkle grated parmesan or cheddar cheese over the potatoes during the final 10 minutes of roasting.
• Spicy Melting Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.

FAQs About Melting Potatoes

• What are melting potatoes? Melting potatoes are thick slices of potatoes roasted and braised in broth to achieve a crispy exterior and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior.

• How thick should I cut the potatoes? Cut the potatoes into 1-inch thick slices. This thickness ensures they cook evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

• Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, while Yukon gold and russet potatoes are preferred, you can experiment with other types like fingerling or purple potatoes.

• What can I use instead of chicken broth? Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version. You can also use beef broth or even a bouillon cube dissolved in water.

• How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through​ (Sunday Supper Movement)​​ (Family Fresh Meals)​.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure the potatoes are in a single layer to allow even roasting.
• Not Flipping the Potatoes: Flip the potatoes halfway through the initial roasting to ensure both sides get crispy.
• Using the Wrong Type of Potatoes: Stick to starchy potatoes like Yukon gold or russet for the best texture.
• Skipping the Broth Step: Adding broth is crucial for the melting texture inside the potatoes.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Melting potatoes are relatively high in calories due to the butter and oil. Here's a basic nutritional breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 239 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 13 g (including 6 g saturated fat)

For those with dietary restrictions, you can modify the recipe by using a lower-fat butter substitute and a low-sodium broth​ (Evolving Table)​.

Conclusion

Melting potatoes are a delightful side dish that combines the best of crispy and tender textures. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a favorite for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth experience! Feel free to share your variations and results.