Hasselback potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic baked potato. Originating from Sweden, these beauties feature several sliced cuts, transforming ordinary spuds into something that looks as elegant as a restaurant dish. As they cook, the slices fan out, resulting in a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, fluffy center.
They are not just pleasing to the eyes but also provide a perfect blend of textures. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just spicing up your weeknight dinner, Hasselback potatoes are a great way to make a humble potato stand out.
Why This Recipe Works
Visual Appeal and Texture: One of the standout features of Hasselback potatoes is their unique appearance. The finely sliced segments offer more edges and surface area, which means more parts of the potato get crispy during baking. This creates a fantastic contrast between the crunchy exterior slices and the soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. This interplay of textures is a delight for the palate, making every bite exciting and different.
Versatility:Hasselback potatoes are a canvas for flavors. The slits can easily soak up butter, herbs, and other seasonings, making the dish incredibly flavorful. Moreover, you can customize them according to your preference, adding ingredients like cheese, garlic, or bacon. This adaptability ensures that they can be paired with a wide variety of main dishes, be it steak, chicken, or fish. So, not only do they taste great on their own, but they also elevate the entire meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes - These are the star of the dish. Use medium-sized, uniformly shaped ones. Substitute: Sweet potatoes for a sweeter, more colorful alternative.
Olive oil - Gives a rich flavor and helps in crisping the potatoes. Substitute: Butter for a creamier taste.
Salt - Enhances the taste. You can use sea salt, table salt, or kosher salt.
Garlic powder - Adds a nice aromatic touch. Substitute: Fresh minced garlic for a more potent garlic flavor.
Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) - Infuses the potatoes with a pleasant aroma. Substitute: Dried herbs if fresh aren't available, but use sparingly.
Tips
- Choose firm and fresh potatoes without sprouts or green spots.
- Ensure even slices without cutting through the potato by using chopsticks or wooden spoons as a guide.
- Preheat the oven for a consistent cooking temperature.
- Baste the potatoes with oil or butter midway for an even crispiness.
- Use a pastry brush to ensure the oil/butter and seasonings get into each slice.
How to Serve
Hasselback potatoes are versatile and can be served as a side dish or a main dish. The crispy outer layer and soft inside make them a delightful treat.
- With a steak: The crispiness of the potatoes complements a juicy steak, making it a classic dinner option.
- As a brunch item: Serve with scrambled eggs and sausages. Drizzle with a bit of cheese or sour cream.
- Veggie delight: Accompany with roasted vegetables and a dollop of herbed yogurt or a vegan dip.
Similar Recipes
Hasselback Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 Medium-sized potatoes
- 4 tablespoon Olive oil
- Salt To taste
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- Fresh herbs rosemary or thyme: A handful, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Clean and pat dry the potatoes.
- Place a potato between two chopsticks or wooden spoons. Make slices about ⅛-inch apart without cutting all the way through the potato.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and chopped herbs.
- Brush the potatoes with this mixture, ensuring it gets between the slices.
- Place on a baking tray and bake for 50-60 minutes, basting with the oil mixture halfway through until crispy and golden.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- Choose firm and fresh potatoes without sprouts or green spots.
- Ensure even slices without cutting through the potato by using chopsticks or wooden spoons as a guide.
- Preheat the oven for a consistent cooking temperature.
- Baste the potatoes with oil or butter midway for an even crispiness.
- Use a pastry brush to ensure the oil/butter and seasonings get into each slice.