Introduction
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a delightful and simple side dish that transforms humble potatoes into a crispy, golden, and flavorful treat. Perfect for any meal, this dish is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The crispy texture on the outside, combined with the soft and creamy inside, makes these smashed potatoes irresistible. Seasoned with aromatic herbs and drizzled with olive oil, they are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fries or roasted potatoes. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or serving guests at a special gathering, Crispy Smashed Potatoes are sure to be a hit. Plus, being vegan, they are a great choice for those following plant-based diets or looking for a lighter yet flavorful option to accompany their main courses.
The History of Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are believed to have originated as an adaptation of traditional roasted or mashed potatoes, with a focus on achieving a crispy texture through the use of baking or frying methods. While the exact origin is hard to pinpoint, the method of “smashing” potatoes before cooking has become popular in recent years, especially in American and European cuisine. The process involves boiling potatoes, smashing them to increase surface area, and then roasting or frying them to achieve a crispy finish. This cooking method has gained popularity because it allows the potatoes to retain their fluffy interior while creating a crisp outer layer. Over time, home cooks and chefs alike have embraced this method as a way to create a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with many main courses.
Ingredients Breakdown
The main ingredients for Crispy Smashed Potatoes are potatoes, olive oil, and seasonings, with the option to add herbs, garlic, and other flavorings for extra depth. Yukon Gold potatoes or baby potatoes are ideal for this dish, as they have a naturally creamy texture when cooked, making them perfect for smashing. Olive oil is used to coat the potatoes, helping them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, but garlic powder, fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley can be added to elevate the flavors. If you prefer a spicy kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika can be used. To make the dish even more decadent, you can drizzle some vegan butter or a bit of nutritional yeast on top after roasting for an extra rich, cheesy flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. If using baby potatoes, leave the skins on for added texture; if using larger potatoes, you can peel them if preferred.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Use a potato masher, fork, or the bottom of a cup to gently smash each potato until it is about half its original size, ensuring the skin stays intact.
- Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired herbs or spices.
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before smashing them, as undercooked potatoes won’t smash as easily and may not crisp up properly.
- For extra crispiness, don’t be afraid to add a generous amount of olive oil or another high-heat oil to the potatoes before roasting.
- Use a potato masher or fork to gently smash the potatoes, but don’t press too hard; you want to break them open without making a mash.
- If you like extra crispy edges, flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
- Feel free to get creative with the seasoning! Try adding garlic, fresh herbs, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty finish.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some melted vegan butter or nutritional yeast over the potatoes once they come out of the oven for a cheesy, buttery flavor.
- If you prefer a different texture, you can also pan-fry the smashed potatoes in a bit of oil until crispy on both sides.
Variations and Customizations
Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a highly customizable dish. For added flavor, you can mix different herbs and spices into the olive oil before drizzling over the potatoes. Try rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for different flavor profiles. If you want a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different potato varieties. While Yukon Gold and baby potatoes are the most common choices, you can also use fingerling potatoes or Russet potatoes, though these may yield slightly different textures. For a vegan cheese flavor, sprinkle nutritional yeast on top of the potatoes after baking. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor. For a more indulgent dish, drizzle vegan ranch or aioli over the potatoes before serving.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Crispy Smashed Potatoes can be a healthy and nutrient-rich side dish, especially when prepared with heart-healthy olive oil and nutrient-dense potatoes. Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, especially when their skins are left on. By making this dish vegan and using olive oil, you’re also keeping the recipe free from animal fats, which makes it suitable for plant-based diets. However, because the potatoes are roasted with oil, they can be higher in calories and fat compared to other lighter potato dishes. To keep the dish healthier, use less oil or try air-frying the potatoes for a crispier result with less oil. Pairing the potatoes with a variety of vegetables and plant-based protein sources can help create a balanced meal.
FAQ
- Can I make Crispy Smashed Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the potatoes, smash them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before roasting. Just make sure to roast them right before serving for the best crispiness. - Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, coconut oil, or any other high-heat oil of your choice. - Can I make this recipe with sweet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes can also be used in this recipe for a delicious twist. They will need a slightly shorter cooking time, so adjust accordingly. - How do I make these potatoes extra crispy?
To make them extra crispy, ensure the potatoes are smashed well, drizzle plenty of oil, and flip them halfway through cooking to brown both sides. - Can I freeze leftover smashed potatoes?
While the texture may not be as crispy once frozen and reheated, you can freeze leftover smashed potatoes. Store them in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven to restore some of the crispiness.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes – A Delicious and Easy Vegan Side Dish Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 Yukon Gold potatoes
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Cracked black pepper optional, to taste
- Olive oil a drizzle to taste
- 6 servings Vegan Green Goddess Dressing
Instructions
- In a large pot, add 6 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the Yukon Gold potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the potatoes cook for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on their size, until fork-tender.
- While the potatoes cook, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Once the potatoes are done, drain the water and transfer the potatoes to the baking sheet, spacing them at least 1 inch apart. Use a butter knife to make a soft slice about halfway through each potato. Then, using the bottom of a cup or mug, gently smash each potato down. Season with salt, garlic powder, and pepper to taste. For a crispier potato, drizzle with olive oil if desired, though this step is optional.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy. Serve with PlantYou Green Goddess Dressing and enjoy!