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Smashed Potatoes

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description Smashed Potatoes Overview

Smashed potatoes are a contemporary side dish where small potatoes are boiled, flattened, and then roasted at high heat to maximize their crispy surface area. This preparation method creates a texture that combines a highly crisp, roasted exterior with a soft, creamy interior. The technique, popularized in home cooking, allows butter or olive oil and seasonings to thoroughly coat the increased surface area, making them a distinct alternative to traditional mashed or roasted potatoes.

help Smashed Potatoes FAQ

How do you make crispy smashed potatoes?

You start by boiling small potatoes until they are fork-tender, then place them on a baking sheet and use a glass or mug to gently flatten them. Finally, you roast them at high heat with oil to maximize their crispy surface area.

Should you peel potatoes before making smashed potatoes?

It is highly recommended to leave the skins on, as they provide structural support during the smashing process and become deliciously crunchy in the oven. The skin also adds a slightly earthy flavor that complements the starchy interior.

Why do smashed potatoes get crispier than roasted whole potatoes?

By flattening the potatoes, you drastically increase the ratio of crispy, exposed surface area to the soft interior. The boiling step gelatinizes the starches on the outside, which subsequently fry up golden brown in the oven's high heat.

When were smashed potatoes popularized?

While simple roasted potatoes have been around for centuries, the specific "smashed" technique of aggressively flattening boiled potatoes gained massive popularity as a contemporary side dish in the 2010s. They are a staple of modern food blogs and brunch menus.

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