Emily Blunt’s Roasted Potatoes: Crispy Perfection Every Time!
Have you ever watched a celebrity casually drop a recipe so good it sends the internet into a frenzy? That’s exactly what happened when Emily Blunt shared her secret to perfectly roasted potatoes. Forget everything you thought you knew about achieving crispy edges and fluffy insides – this method, surprisingly simple, is a game-changer. We’re diving deep into Emily Blunt’s roasted potato recipe, breaking down each step, offering tips and tricks, and exploring variations to make this dish your own signature side. Get ready to elevate your potato game to a whole new level!
## The Origin Story: A Culinary Revelation
While the exact details of where Emily Blunt first shared this recipe remain a bit hazy (often attributed to an off-hand comment during an interview or a brief mention on a talk show), the buzz surrounding it is undeniable. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the promise of unparalleled crispiness, is what truly captured the attention of home cooks everywhere. The beauty of this recipe lies not in its complexity, but in its reliance on proper technique and high-quality ingredients.
## The Star Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. The list is short and sweet, focusing on quality over quantity:
* **Potatoes:** This is where the magic begins! Russet potatoes are the classic choice for roasted potatoes due to their high starch content. This starch is key to achieving that desirable crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly creamier texture, but Russets are generally preferred for that ultimate crisp. Aim for about 2 pounds of potatoes for a generous serving.
* **Olive Oil:** Opt for a good quality extra virgin olive oil. The flavor will subtly infuse the potatoes as they roast, adding richness and depth. About ¼ to ½ cup should be sufficient, depending on the size of your potatoes.
* **Salt:** Don’t skimp on the salt! It’s crucial for drawing out moisture from the potatoes, which contributes to the crisping process. Kosher salt or sea salt are excellent choices.
* **Black Pepper:** Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor profile. A generous grind is recommended.
* **Optional Flavor Boosters:** While the base recipe is fantastic on its own, feel free to experiment with these additions:
* **Garlic:** Minced garlic or garlic powder can add a pungent and aromatic note.
* **Rosemary:** Fresh or dried rosemary complements the potatoes beautifully, adding an earthy and herbaceous flavor.
* **Thyme:** Similar to rosemary, thyme offers a fragrant and slightly lemony flavor.
* **Paprika:** Smoked paprika adds a smoky and slightly sweet element.
* **Cayenne Pepper:** A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick of heat.
* **Onion Powder:** Adds a savory depth.
## The Method: Step-by-Step to Crispy Perfection
Now for the fun part! Follow these detailed instructions to recreate Emily Blunt’s famous roasted potatoes:
**Step 1: Prep the Potatoes**
* **Wash and Peel (Optional):** Thoroughly wash the potatoes. Peeling is optional, depending on your preference. Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients. If you choose to peel, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skins completely.
* **Cut into Uniform Pieces:** This is arguably the most crucial step. Cut the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes or evenly sized pieces. The uniformity ensures that all the potatoes cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overcooked. Aim for consistent sizes to achieve that perfect golden-brown crisp on every piece.
**Step 2: The Secret Soak (and Why It Works)**
* **Soak in Cold Water:** Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. This is the key to Emily Blunt’s method. The cold water helps to draw out excess starch from the potatoes. Less starch means crispier potatoes! Soak the potatoes for at least 30 minutes, or even up to a few hours. The longer they soak, the more starch is removed, resulting in a superior crispy texture.
* **Why This Works:** Starch on the surface of the potatoes can prevent them from browning properly and can lead to a gummy or sticky texture. Soaking removes this excess starch, allowing the potatoes to develop a beautiful, crispy crust during roasting.
**Step 3: Parboiling (A Gentle Head Start)**
* **Drain and Rinse:** After soaking, drain the potatoes and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This removes any remaining starch.
* **Parboil:** Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Parboil the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes. The goal is not to fully cook them, but to soften the edges slightly. This creates a rough surface, which will further enhance crisping during roasting. Overcooking at this stage will result in mushy potatoes, so be careful not to overdo it.
* **Test for Doneness:** To check if the potatoes are ready, pierce one with a fork. It should be slightly tender, but still hold its shape. They should not be falling apart.
**Step 4: Rough ‘Em Up (Texture is Key)**
* **Drain and Return to the Pot:** Drain the potatoes well and return them to the empty pot. Let them sit for a minute or two to allow any excess water to evaporate.
* **Shake and Toss Vigorously:** This is another crucial step for achieving maximum crispiness. Place the lid on the pot and shake the pot vigorously for about 30 seconds. The shaking and tossing will roughen up the edges of the potatoes, creating more surface area for browning and crisping. You should see a slight powdery coating on the potatoes, which is the starch that has been released during parboiling. This starchy coating will transform into a delicious, crispy crust in the oven.
**Step 5: Season and Coat**
* **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before adding the potatoes for optimal results.
* **Prepare Baking Sheet:** Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and make cleanup easier. You can also use a baking sheet without parchment paper, but make sure to grease it well.
* **Drizzle with Olive Oil:** Pour the olive oil over the potatoes in the pot. Use a generous amount to ensure that all the potatoes are well coated. The oil helps to conduct heat and contributes to the crisping process.
* **Season Generously:** Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings (garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, etc.). Don’t be shy with the seasoning – the potatoes need it!
* **Toss to Coat:** Toss the potatoes thoroughly to ensure that they are evenly coated with olive oil and seasonings. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently toss the potatoes, being careful not to break them apart.
**Step 6: Roast to Golden Perfection**
* **Arrange on Baking Sheet:** Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the potatoes rather than roast them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
* **Roast:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides.
* **Monitor and Adjust:** Keep a close eye on the potatoes during roasting. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly. If they are not browning enough, increase the oven temperature slightly.
* **The Perfect Crisp:** The potatoes are done when they are deeply golden brown and crispy on the outside, and fluffy and tender on the inside. Use a fork to test for doneness. The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork, but still hold their shape.
**Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!**
* **Remove from Oven:** Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
* **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added flavor and visual appeal.
* **Serve Immediately:** Serve the roasted potatoes immediately while they are still hot and crispy. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
## Tips and Tricks for Potato Perfection
* **Potato Variety Matters:** As mentioned earlier, Russet potatoes are generally considered the best choice for crispy roasted potatoes due to their high starch content. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used, but they will have a slightly creamier texture.
* **Don’t Skip the Soaking:** Soaking the potatoes in cold water is crucial for removing excess starch and achieving that crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!
* **Parboiling is Key:** Parboiling the potatoes softens the edges and creates a rough surface, which enhances crisping during roasting. Be careful not to overcook the potatoes during parboiling.
* **Rough ‘Em Up!:** Shaking the potatoes in the pot after parboiling creates more surface area for browning and crisping. This is an essential step for achieving maximum crispiness.
* **Generous Olive Oil:** Use a generous amount of olive oil to coat the potatoes. The oil helps to conduct heat and contributes to the crisping process.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the potatoes rather than roast them.
* **Monitor and Adjust:** Keep a close eye on the potatoes during roasting and adjust the oven temperature as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
* **Salt is Your Friend:** Don’t be afraid to salt the potatoes generously. Salt draws out moisture and helps to create a crispy crust.
* **Experiment with Seasonings:** Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to create your own signature roasted potatoes.
* **Serve Immediately:** Roasted potatoes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while they are still hot and crispy.
## Variations: Elevating Your Roasted Potato Game
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with these variations to take your roasted potatoes to the next level:
* **Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes:** Add minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese to the potatoes before roasting for a flavorful and cheesy twist.
* **Rosemary Garlic Roasted Potatoes:** Add fresh rosemary sprigs and minced garlic to the potatoes before roasting for an aromatic and herbaceous flavor.
* **Spicy Roasted Potatoes:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the potatoes before roasting for a subtle kick of heat.
* **Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes:** Add lemon zest, fresh thyme, and rosemary to the potatoes before roasting for a bright and refreshing flavor.
* **Sweet Potato Roasted Potatoes:** Substitute some or all of the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious option.
* **Roasted Potatoes with Bacon:** Add chopped bacon to the potatoes before roasting for a smoky and savory flavor. Cook the bacon slightly before adding to the potatoes.
* **Roasted Potatoes with Sausage:** Add sliced sausage to the potatoes before roasting for a hearty and flavorful meal. Cook the sausage slightly before adding to the potatoes.
* **Loaded Roasted Potatoes:** After roasting, top the potatoes with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, and chives, for a decadent and satisfying treat.
## Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Perfect Potatoes
Emily Blunt’s roasted potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Roasted Chicken or Turkey:** Roasted potatoes are a classic accompaniment to roasted chicken or turkey.
* **Steak or Grilled Meats:** The crispy potatoes provide a perfect contrast to the richness of steak or grilled meats.
* **Fish or Seafood:** Roasted potatoes can also be served with fish or seafood, such as grilled salmon or baked cod.
* **Vegetarian Mains:** Pair the potatoes with vegetarian dishes like lentil loaf or grilled halloumi for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Breakfast or Brunch:** Roasted potatoes can be served as a side dish for breakfast or brunch, alongside eggs, bacon, and toast.
* **Holiday Meals:** These potatoes are a welcome addition to any holiday meal, offering a comforting and delicious side dish that everyone will love.
## Storage and Reheating: Making the Most of Leftovers
While roasted potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use several methods:
* **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Air Fryer:** Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
* **Skillet:** Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through and crispy.
* **Microwave:** While not the ideal method for maintaining crispiness, you can reheat the potatoes in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
## Why This Recipe Works: The Science Behind the Crisp
The magic of Emily Blunt’s roasted potatoes lies in a combination of factors that work together to create the perfect texture:
* **Starch Removal:** Soaking the potatoes in cold water removes excess starch, which prevents them from becoming gummy or sticky during roasting. Starch can inhibit proper browning, so removing it is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
* **Parboiling and Roughening:** Parboiling softens the edges of the potatoes and creates a rough surface, which increases the surface area for browning and crisping. Shaking the potatoes after parboiling further roughens the edges and releases more starch, which will transform into a crispy crust in the oven.
* **High Heat and Olive Oil:** Roasting the potatoes at a high temperature with a generous amount of olive oil promotes even browning and crisping. The olive oil conducts heat efficiently and helps to create a barrier that prevents the potatoes from becoming soggy.
* **Single Layer Roasting:** Spreading the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet ensures that they are evenly exposed to the heat, allowing them to roast rather than steam. Overcrowding the pan will trap moisture and prevent the potatoes from crisping properly.
## Conclusion: Your New Go-To Potato Recipe
Emily Blunt’s roasted potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a culinary experience. With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they are sure to become a family favorite. The simple ingredients and straightforward method make this recipe accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. So, ditch your old potato recipe and give this one a try. You won’t be disappointed! Get ready to impress your friends and family with these perfectly roasted potatoes that are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!
## FAQ: Answering Your Potato Questions
**Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?**
A: While Russet potatoes are generally recommended for their high starch content and crispy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly creamier result. Avoid using waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won’t crisp up as well.
**Q: Can I skip the soaking step?**
A: While you can technically skip the soaking step, it’s highly recommended for achieving the best possible crispiness. Soaking removes excess starch, which prevents the potatoes from becoming gummy or sticky.
**Q: Can I use a different type of oil?**
A: While olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits, you can also use other types of oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. However, the flavor may be slightly different.
**Q: How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet?**
A: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it well with oil to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
**Q: How do I know when the potatoes are done?**
A: The potatoes are done when they are deeply golden brown and crispy on the outside, and fluffy and tender on the inside. Use a fork to test for doneness. The potatoes should be easily pierced with a fork, but still hold their shape.
**Q: Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?**
A: While roasted potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can parboil and shake the potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to roast, simply toss them with olive oil and seasonings and roast as directed.