Fried Smashed Potatoes with Lemons

Name: Fried Smashed Potatoes with Lemons
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 48 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds of baby or fingerling potatoes; 1/4 cup of olive oil, with additional as required; 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and cut in half; 3 tablespoons of olive oil; 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley leaves; 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme leaves; Zest of 2 lemons; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

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By AprilPublished Aug 14, 2023

Have you ever craved a crispy, golden potato dish that is bursting with flavor?

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Prep: 8 min
Cook: 5 min
Total: 48 min
Servings: 4

Method

To prepare the potatoes, place them in a large stockpot with enough cold water to cover them by at least 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat and cook the potatoes until they are tender, which should take around 20 to 25 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them dry for 5 minutes. Then, gently press the potatoes with the palm of your hand to lightly smash them.
Next, heat 1/4 cup of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant and lightly browned, which should take about 1 minute. Remove and discard the garlic. In batches, add the potatoes to the skillet and cook them without stirring until the bottoms turn golden brown, which should take around 5 to 8 minutes. Use a spatula to turn the potatoes over and continue cooking them on the other side until they become golden brown as well, which should take another 5 to 8 minutes. If needed, drizzle the potatoes with more oil while cooking.
To make the dressing, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Season the dressing with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Spoon the dressing over the potatoes and gently toss them until they are coated. Season the potatoes with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Finally, transfer the potatoes to a serving bowl and they are ready

About this recipe

Have you ever craved a crispy, golden potato dish that is bursting with flavor? Look no further than fried smashed potatoes with lemons! This delectable side dish combines the creamy texture of potatoes with the zesty tang of lemons, creating a mouthwatering combination that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're a fan of potatoes or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Potatoes

What makes fried smashed potatoes so irresistibly crispy? It all comes down to the cooking technique. By boiling the potatoes until they are fork-tender, then smashing and frying them, you achieve a wonderful contrast of textures. The outside becomes wonderfully crispy, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When selecting potatoes for this recipe, it's important to choose a variety that will hold its shape well during boiling. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal choices, as they have a higher starch content and will result in a creamier texture.

Smashing the Potatoes

After boiling the potatoes, it's time to give them a gentle smash. Using the back of a fork or a potato masher, press down on each potato until it's flattened but still holds together. This step not only creates more surface area for delicious crispy bits but also helps to absorb the flavors from the lemon-infused oil.

Infusing Flavor with Lemon

Lemons are the star of this dish, adding a refreshing and bright note to the crispy potatoes. The lemon flavor is infused into the oil, creating a citrusy aroma and tangy taste that complements the creamy potatoes perfectly.

Creating Lemon-Infused Oil

To infuse the oil with lemon flavor, simply heat olive oil in a pan and add lemon zest and juice. Let the oil simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This lemon-infused oil will be used to fry the smashed potatoes, adding a deliciously tangy twist to the dish.

Frying to Perfection

Once the oil is infused with lemon, it's time to fry the smashed potatoes. Carefully place the potatoes into the hot oil, allowing them to cook until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. The lemon-infused oil not only adds flavor but also helps to achieve that desired crunchiness.

Conclusion

Indulging in a plate of fried smashed potatoes with lemons is an experience like no other. The creamy, crispy potatoes paired with the zesty tang of lemons create a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress both family and friends. So why wait? It's time to elevate your potato game and savor the deliciousness of fried smashed potatoes with lemons!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use any type of potato for this recipe?: While you can use different types of potatoes, we recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold for the best results. These varieties hold their shape well and result in a creamier texture.
. How do I achieve the perfect crispiness?: To achieve crispy smashed potatoes, make sure to boil them until they are fork-tender before smashing and frying. The high heat and lemon-infused oil also contribute to the desired crispiness.
. Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of lemons?: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes to add a unique twist to the dish. The choice is yours!
. Are fried smashed potatoes gluten-free?: Yes, fried smashed potatoes are naturally gluten-free. However, make sure to check that the oil and any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
. Can I make this dish ahead of time?: While fried smashed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven to regain some crispiness.
. What can I serve with fried smashed potatoes?: Fried smashed potatoes are versatile and pair well with various dishes. They make a fantastic side for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a simple salad.
. Can I add other seasonings to the potatoes?: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Rosemary, thyme, or paprika are all great options to try.
. Can I make this recipe vegan?: Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based oil instead of butter and ensuring all other ingredients are vegan-friendly. It's a delicious option for those following a vegan lifestyle.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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