Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Preheat the oven to 200°C (top and bottom heat).
Peel the potatoes if you want (the skin adds extra flavour and crunch) or leave the skin on for a rustic look and extra bite.
Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces: you can dice them, cut them into wedges, or even slices if you prefer. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will cook, but larger pieces will give you a nice crispy crust.
Step 2: Boil for extra crispiness (optional)
Bring a pan of water to the boil and add the potatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are just starting to soften but not fully cooked. This helps to make the inside creamy and the outside extra crispy.
Drain the potatoes and steam them briefly to remove any excess water.
Step 3: Season and fry the potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large bowl. Add a good glug of olive oil and toss well to coat evenly.
Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Add the fresh herbs for an extra flavour boost.
Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not on top of each other, so they can get nice and crispy on all sides.
Step 4: Baking
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the potatoes for 25-30 minutes (depending on the size of the pieces), or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Halfway through the baking time, you can stir them around so that they brown evenly.
Add 1 tablespoon of butter during the last 5 minutes of baking time for an extra rich flavor.
Step 5: Finishing
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest briefly.
Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over them for an extra crispy and flavorful layer.
Garnish with some extra fresh herbs of your choice.
Tips for the perfect baked potatoes:
Keep the potatoes dry: It is important to dry the potatoes well before putting them in the oven. This prevents them from steaming and ensures a crispier result.
Use a baking mat: Using a baking mat or parchment paper will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make it easier to turn them without them falling apart.
Herb variations: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even a little chili powder for extra spice.
Crispy edges: If you like extra crispy edges, try baking the potatoes in a pan instead of the oven. This will give them a crispy crust.
Baked potatoes are a versatile and tasty dish, perfect with meat, fish, or as a snack. These simple steps will make them even tastier, and you can vary them endlessly with herbs and toppings. Enjoy!
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