Firecracker Spicy Smashed Potatoes: A Perfect Side with a Kick!

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds small potatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool for a few minutes.
  3. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and use a potato masher or fork to smash each one until it is flattened but still in one piece.
  4. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  5. Roast the potatoes in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  6. While the potatoes are roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Remove the potatoes from the oven and drizzle with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Tools for making

  • Potato masher - Used to smash the boiled potatoes.
  • Baking sheet - Used to roast the smashed potatoes in the oven.
  • Large pot - Used to boil the potatoes.
  • Saucepan - Used to melt the butter and sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes.
  • Fork - Can be used as an alternative to the potato masher for smashing the potatoes.

Recipe variations

  • Instead of using regular potatoes, try using sweet potatoes for a different flavor and color.
  • Add some grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar cheese on top of the smashed potatoes before roasting for a cheesy twist.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
  • For a vegan option, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter substitute.
  • Add diced bacon or pancetta to the garlic butter mixture for a smoky and savory twist.
  • For a creamy variation, dollop some sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the smashed potatoes before serving.
  • Try using different types of oils such as avocado oil or melted ghee for a unique flavor.

Recipe overview

Spice up your side dish routine with this recipe for Spicy Smashed Potatoes. This dish takes the humble potato and elevates it with a kick of heat from red pepper flakes and a flavorful touch from fresh garlic and parsley. We start by boiling small potatoes until they're perfectly tender, then smashing them flat for maximum crispiness. A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a stint in a hot oven results in potatoes that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and absolutely delicious. A final drizzle of spicy garlic butter adds an extra layer of flavor that makes these potatoes truly irresistible. Perfect for a hearty dinner side or a snack with a kick, these Spicy Smashed Potatoes are sure to become a favorite.

Common questions

  1. Can I use larger potatoes instead of small ones? No, it's best to use small potatoes for this recipe as they cook more evenly and are easier to smash.
  2. Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil? Yes, you can use another type of oil like vegetable or canola oil if you prefer.
  3. Can I omit the red pepper flakes if I don't like spicy food? Yes, you can skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder flavor.
  4. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried parsley if you don't have fresh. However, fresh parsley will provide a better flavor.
  5. Do I need to peel the potatoes before boiling them? No, you don't need to peel the potatoes. The skin adds texture and flavor to the dish.
  6. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time? While they are best when served immediately after roasting, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Potato masher - Used to easily smash the boiled potatoes.
  • Baking sheet - Used to roast the smashed potatoes in the oven.
  • Saucepan - Used to melt the butter and sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes.
  • Fork - Can be used as an alternative to the potato masher for smashing the potatoes.
  • Chef's knife - Used for mincing the garlic and chopping the parsley.
  • Cutting board - Provides a stable surface for chopping and mincing.
  • Oven mitts - Used to safely handle the hot baking sheet and potatoes.
  • Serving platter - Used to present the finished dish when serving.

Origin stories

Smashed potatoes, in their simplest form, are a way to prepare potatoes that originated from rustic home cooking and has since been popularized globally. The technique of smashing boiled potatoes then roasting them to create a crispy exterior and fluffy interior is a wonderful play on texture. The concept of adding spice to this simple potato dish, however, can be traced back to regions like Latin America and India, where spices are used abundantly in cooking. The addition of spicy elements not only brings a flavor contrast but also pays homage to the global love for spiced foods. One interesting tidbit is that while the cooking method may be straightforward, the variety of potatoes used can greatly affect the outcome. Smaller, waxier potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are often preferred for their creamy interior when smashed and roasted. It just goes to show, even the simplest of dishes have their complexities!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.