Ingredients:
To make this dish, take 3 to 4 medium-sized potatoes, peel them, and cut into thick wedges or chunks. You can also add 1 sliced onion for extra flavor (optional). For seasoning, use 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon chili flakes, and salt to taste. You may also include ½ teaspoon garlic powder or 2 fresh garlic cloves (finely chopped). For coating and roasting, use 4 to 5 tablespoons of USDA certified cold-pressed groundnut oil. This oil helps the potatoes become golden, crispy, and naturally flavorful.
How to Make:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and let it heat fully before baking. This step is important to ensure that the potatoes roast evenly and develop a crispy exterior. Preheating helps lock in the flavors and starts the cooking process immediately once the tray is placed inside. Allow the oven to heat for at least 10 to 15 minutes to reach the desired temperature fully.
Step 2: Coat the potatoes
Place the chopped potatoes and onions in a large bowl. Make sure the pieces are cut to similar sizes for even cooking. Pour the groundnut oil over them generously. Then, toss the mixture well using your hands or a spatula so that every piece is fully coated with the oil. The oil helps in roasting and adds a nutty aroma and taste that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Ensure all sides of the potatoes and onions are slick with oil.
Step 3: Add the seasonings
Add rosemary, black pepper, chili flakes, garlic, and salt to the bowl. These seasonings will bring out the savory and aromatic flavor in the roasted potatoes. Mix everything well until the seasonings stick to the oiled potatoes evenly. Stir thoroughly so that every bite carries a balanced amount of herbs and spices. At this stage, the raw ingredients will already begin to smell fragrant and inviting.
Step 4: Spread on a tray
Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil. Lining the tray prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Spread the pieces out evenly, ensuring there’s space between each piece so they roast evenly. If the pieces are too close or stacked, they might steam instead of roast, leading to a softer texture rather than a crisp one. Spacing them properly is key for that golden-brown finish.
Step 5: Bake until crispy
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Place the tray in the middle rack of the oven for even heat distribution. Halfway through, flip the potatoes gently using a spatula or tongs to ensure they roast on all sides. This step helps achieve that perfect crispy texture all around. Continue baking until golden brown with crispy edges. You’ll know they’re done when they’re nicely browned and smell delicious.
Step 6: Serve hot
Take the tray out of the oven and serve the roasted potatoes hot on a plate. You can serve them as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They are ready to eat and full of rich, natural flavor. The crispy edges, soft centers, and the blend of groundnut oil and herbs make them irresistibly tasty right out of the oven.
