Roasting potatoes is one of those cooking techniques that seems deceptively simple. Many of us have likely attempted it multiple times with promising results at first, only to end up with a tray of lackluster spuds that are overcooked, undercooked, or stuck to the pan. The longed-for combination of a crispy exterior and fluffy interior might seem like a daunting goal to achieve.
Nonetheless, the real key to making the perfect roast potatoes lies in understanding their chemical makeup and physical transformations during the cooking process. Potatoes are primarily composed of starches and water. These starches need to be broken down in order for them to achieve an optimally crispy exterior.
So what is this game-changing ingredient to achieve that crunchy-on-the-outside and fluffy-on-the-inside roast potato everyone is after?
The simple answer is: goose fat. It may seem too luxurious or even extravagant, but using a high-quality goose fat makes a world of difference in the final product. It enhances and amplifies the potato's natural taste while elevating the texture of the potato crispy to irresistible.
Here is a simple recipe you can try:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of high-quality potatoes (Maris Piper is a popular favorite)
- 5 tablespoons of goose fat
Instructions:
- Chop the potatoes into your preferred shapes, let them soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes
- Preheat the oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit and make sure the goose fat has reached room temperature.
- Drain the potatoes, then add salt to your taste. Making sure they are as dry as possible is essential to this process. Heat the goose fat in a large oven-safe skillet over high heat
- Once hot, add the potatoes and let them sear until golden brown on the bottom.
- Finish cooking the potatoes in the preheated oven for about an hour, ensuring the potatoes are turned occasionally to result in golden, crispy spuds, fluffy on the inside.
The final result is simply divine - perfect as a side dish, dinner party or meal to enjoy with your closest family and friends.