Roasted Potatoes with Garlic and Thyme

Introduction

Roasted potatoes with garlic and thyme is a classic side dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. The combination of crispy golden-brown potatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh thyme creates a dish that’s hard to resist. It’s simple to make and perfect for serving alongside a variety of main courses. Whether you're preparing a family meal or a special dinner, roasted potatoes will always be a crowd-pleaser.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to make perfectly roasted potatoes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The added garlic and thyme infuse the dish with a savory and aromatic quality that elevates the humble potato to new heights.

Ingredients

• 1 kg of potatoes (Yukon Gold or baby potatoes work well)
• 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Fresh thyme (about 4-5 sprigs)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven is heating, wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can either peel the potatoes or leave the skin on for a more rustic feel.

If using larger potatoes, cut them into evenly sized chunks, about 2-3 cm in size. If using baby potatoes, you can leave them whole or halve them depending on their size. The key is to make sure all the pieces are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Seasoning the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, smashed garlic cloves, fresh thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.

Smashing the garlic cloves allows them to release their flavor as they roast, giving the potatoes a delicious garlicky aroma without being too overpowering.

Step 3: Roasting the Potatoes

Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. It’s important to give the potatoes some space, as this allows them to roast evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. About halfway through cooking, use a spatula to flip the potatoes so they roast evenly on all sides.

The garlic cloves will also caramelize during roasting, adding a rich, sweet flavor to the dish. The thyme will become fragrant, infusing the potatoes with a subtle herby aroma.

Step 4: Serving the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. If desired, you can garnish the roasted potatoes with a few extra sprigs of fresh thyme for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve the roasted potatoes warm as a side dish. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a simple snack on their own. The crispy edges and tender centers of the potatoes, combined with the earthy thyme and garlic, make this dish irresistible.

Tips and Variations

• Variety of Potatoes: For added texture, try mixing different types of potatoes like red-skinned, purple, or fingerling potatoes. Each variety will add its own unique flavor and color to the dish.
• Add Lemon: For a bright, zesty twist, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the potatoes just before serving. Lemon pairs well with the earthy thyme and garlic, adding a fresh dimension to the flavor.
• Herb Substitutions: While thyme is a classic choice, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or even oregano. Each herb will bring its own distinct flavor to the roasted potatoes.
• Extra Crispy Potatoes: If you love extra crispy potatoes, try parboiling the potato chunks for about 5 minutes before roasting. Drain them well and let them dry out slightly before tossing with oil and seasoning. This method helps create an even crispier exterior.
• Garlic Flavor: If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, feel free to add minced garlic during the last 10 minutes of roasting to prevent it from burning but still imparting that strong garlic punch.

Conclusion

Roasted potatoes with garlic and thyme are the perfect side dish for any occasion. The simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s flavorful, aromatic, and satisfying. Whether served alongside a holiday roast or enjoyed on a casual weeknight, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

With its crispy edges, tender centers, and savory flavor, roasted potatoes are a versatile and beloved dish that everyone can enjoy. Try this recipe the next time you’re looking for a simple yet delicious side, and feel free to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.