How to Perfect Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

If you are looking to master the art of perfectly golden and crunchy potatoes, look no further than Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes. This Portuguese-inspired dish transforms simple potatoes into an irresistible treat bursting with texture and flavor. With a few straightforward techniques, you can enjoy a crispy exterior combined with a fluffy, buttery interior every time. Whether you want a side for dinner or a snack to impress guests, these potatoes bring warmth and delight to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simplicity at its best: Uses minimal ingredients for maximum flavor, making it easy to prepare.
  • Perfect crunch and softness: Achieves a crisp outside while keeping the inside tender and creamy.
  • Versatile accompaniment: Pairs wonderfully with meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains.
  • Crowd-pleaser: Its irresistible texture and taste make it a favorite for any occasion.
  • Minimal fuss: Requires few steps but delivers a show-stopping side dish effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in giving the Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes their signature flavor and texture. From the type of potatoes to the oil and seasonings, each element is simple yet impactful.

  • Potatoes: Choose medium-sized waxy potatoes for the best combination of crispiness and softness.
  • Olive oil: Adds richness and helps create the golden crust that’s essential for crispy perfection.
  • Coarse sea salt: Enhances flavor and adds a delicate crunch on the potato skin.
  • Garlic cloves: Provides aromatic depth that complements the potatoes wonderfully.
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme): Optional but highly recommended for a fragrant, earthy touch.
  • Black pepper: Just enough to balance the flavors with subtle warmth.

Variations for Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your preferences or dietary needs. Its simple base makes it easy to experiment with spices, herbs, and accompaniments.

  • Spicy kick: Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a gentle heat boost.
  • Vegan enhancement: Use infused olive oils like garlic or chili instead of fresh garlic for a different flavor profile.
  • Cheesy twist: Sprinkle grated parmesan or manchego cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a savory finish.
  • Herb variations: Swap rosemary for fresh oregano or sage to change the herbal note.
  • Lemon zest: Add zest before serving for a bright, citrusy contrast.

How to Make Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Boil them in salted water until they’re just tender but not falling apart, usually about 20-25 minutes. This pre-cooking step is key for getting that tender inside.

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Place each potato on a cutting board and gently press down just enough to crack and flatten it slightly without breaking it completely. This “punching” or “smashing” creates crevices that crisp up beautifully.

Step 3: Season and Oil

Transfer the smashed potatoes onto a baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, sprinkle with coarse sea salt, fresh or minced garlic, herbs, and cracked black pepper. Make sure each potato is well-coated to enhance browning and taste.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Roast for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispness on both sides. Keep an eye on the potatoes to avoid burning but aim for a deep golden color.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven and serve immediately. Their crisp edges and fluffy interiors shine best when fresh.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

  • Choose the right potato: Waxy or all-purpose potatoes hold their shape better and crisp more reliably than starchy ones.
  • Don’t skip the boiling: Parboiling is essential to get that tender inside while roasting crisps the exterior.
  • Smash gently: Apply just enough pressure to flatten without breaking the potato into pieces.
  • Use plenty of oil: The olive oil doesn’t just add flavor; it’s what makes the edges golden and crispy.
  • Roast hot and flip: High heat and turning them halfway ensures a consistent crunch all around.
  • Season at the right time: Adding salt and herbs before roasting allows the flavors to seep in and intensify.

How to Serve Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, rosemary, or thyme add a burst of color and fresh aroma. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can elevate the crunch, while a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

These potatoes make a fantastic companion to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or sautéed vegetables. They also pair well with seafood dishes like baked cod or shrimp and are versatile enough to accompany vegetarian meals like mushroom ragout or ratatouille.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the potatoes in a rustic wooden bowl for a cozy, homestyle feel or plate them neatly in stacks to impress guests visually. For a casual twist, place them in a parchment-lined basket with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or chimichurri on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store them unseasoned if possible to maintain maximum crispness when reheating.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it may soften the crisp texture. If you decide to freeze, flash freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to freezer bags for up to one month. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating

To restore the signature crunch, reheat the potatoes in a hot oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it will result in sogginess.

FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes?

Medium-sized waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and crisp nicely without becoming too soft or mushy inside.

Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh potatoes yield the best texture for this recipe since the boiling and smashing steps depend on the potato’s natural starch and moisture. Frozen potatoes tend to be too watery and won’t crisp as well.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No peeling is required. The skin contributes to the crispy texture and rustic appeal of the finished dish, plus it adds nutritional value and flavor.

How can I make these potatoes extra crispy?

Using plenty of olive oil, roasting at high heat, flipping halfway through, and making sure your potatoes are dry after boiling are key steps to achieving maximum crispiness.

Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?

While oven roasting gives the best even crispiness, you can also pan-fry smashed potatoes on medium-high heat in a skillet, but it requires attention and frequent flipping to avoid burning.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes are a delightful treat that turns simple spuds into a show-stopping side dish packed with texture and flavor. Once you master the easy technique, this recipe will become your go-to for comfort, celebration, or just everyday indulgence. Give it a try, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of perfectly roasted potatoes that everyone will ask for again and again.

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Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes


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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes are a Portuguese-inspired dish featuring medium-sized waxy potatoes that are boiled, gently smashed, seasoned with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and coarse sea salt, then roasted to achieve a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. This simple yet flavorful recipe is an ideal side dish that pairs well with meats, seafood, or vegetarian meals and is sure to impress with its irresistible texture and taste.


Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 6 medium-sized waxy potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes)

Seasonings & Oil

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt, plus more for seasoning
  • 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced or crushed
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 12 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Thoroughly wash the potatoes to remove any dirt. Boil them in salted water for about 20-25 minutes, until they are just tender but not falling apart. This parboiling step ensures a tender interior.
  2. Smash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. On a cutting board, gently press down on each potato just enough to crack and flatten it slightly without breaking it completely. This creates crevices that crisp beautifully during roasting.
  3. Season and Oil: Arrange the smashed potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle with coarse sea salt, minced garlic, fresh herbs if using, and cracked black pepper. Ensure each potato is evenly coated to enhance browning and flavor.
  4. Roast to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the potatoes for 25-35 minutes, turning them halfway through to achieve even crispness on both sides. Aim for a deep golden color while monitoring to prevent burning.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve immediately to enjoy the crispy edges and fluffy interiors at their best.

Notes

  • Choose waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for optimal crispness and texture.
  • Do not skip boiling; parboiling is essential for tender interiors.
  • Smash gently to avoid breaking potatoes into pieces.
  • Use plenty of olive oil to help create golden, crispy edges.
  • Roast at high heat and flip halfway for even crispness.
  • Season potatoes before roasting for intensified flavor.
  • Serve with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a hot oven to restore crispness.
  • Freezing is possible but may reduce crispiness; flash freeze before storing.
  • Avoid microwaving leftovers as it will cause sogginess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Portuguese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 150g)
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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