How to Make Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

If you’re craving the ultimate potato dish with that perfect mix of crunchy outside and fluffy, tender inside, you’re in for a treat. Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes are a classic Portuguese favorite that delivers just that. This simple yet irresistible recipe features gently smashed potatoes roasted to golden perfection, infused with garlic and herbs, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Learn the secret to perfect Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes—golden, tender, and bursting with flavor in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless yet impressive: Requires minimal ingredients and steps but results in a restaurant-quality side dish.
• Perfect texture contrast: Crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making every bite satisfying.
• Flavorful and aromatic: Infused with garlic, olive oil, and herbs, it’s anything but bland.
• Versatile side dish: Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian meals.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak based on your pantry staples and taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To master these Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes, you don’t need fancy stuff—just a handful of everyday ingredients that bring out the best texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the potatoes’ starchiness to the punch of garlic and aromatic herbs.

• Potatoes: Choose medium-sized waxy potatoes for perfect roasting and smashing.
• Olive oil: Adds depth and helps create that irresistible crispy crust.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic lends a bright, savory aroma and flavor.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
• Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme): Adds an earthy, fragrant note that complements the potatoes.
• Black pepper: For subtle heat and balance in flavor.

Variations for Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, letting you customize it to your liking or dietary needs. Experimenting with different herbs, spices, or finishing touches will keep this classic fresh and exciting every time.

• Herb swap: Try oregano or sage instead of rosemary for a different herbal twist.
• Spicy kick: Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a touch of heat.
• Cheesy finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Manchego before serving for extra richness.
• Vegan option: Use garlic-infused oil and skip any cheese for a plant-based delight.
• Garlic boost: Roast extra whole garlic cloves with the potatoes for mellow sweetness.

How to Make Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes well to remove any dirt. Leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Boil them in salted water until just tender but not falling apart—usually about 20 minutes, depending on size.

Step 2: Smash the Potatoes

Drain and let the potatoes cool slightly. On a lined baking tray, gently press each potato with the bottom of a glass or your hand until slightly flattened but still in one piece—this “smashing” allows for maximum crispiness during roasting.

Step 3: Season and Oil

Drizzle plenty of good-quality olive oil all over the smashed potatoes. Sprinkle generously with sea salt, cracked black pepper, fresh herbs, and finely chopped or minced garlic for that signature aroma and flavor.

Step 4: Roast Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Roast the potatoes in the center rack for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re beautifully golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once out of the oven, give them a quick sprinkle of additional flaky sea salt if desired and a light drizzle of olive oil to keep them shiny and flavorful. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

• Choose the right potato: Waxy or all-purpose potatoes roast better and hold shape when smashed.
• Don’t overboil: Keep potatoes just tender so they hold together but crush easily.
• Use plenty of olive oil: It’s key for crispiness and flavor—don’t skimp!
• Roast at a high temperature: High heat is essential to achieve that golden crust.
• Turn the potatoes: Flip halfway to ensure even browning on all sides.
• Add garlic near the end: To avoid burning, add some garlic halfway through roasting or use garlic oil.

How to Serve Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes

Garnishes

Top your roasted potatoes with fresh finely chopped parsley, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil to brighten every bite and add a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes are a perfect companion to grilled chicken, steak, or baked fish, and they also shine beside roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or creamy dips like aioli or tzatziki.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these potatoes on a rustic wooden board or in a vibrant ceramic dish to highlight their golden hues. You can also stack them a bit for a casual pile or arrange them neatly in rows for an elegant dinner party look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days while maintaining most of their texture and flavor.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal as potatoes may lose their crispy texture after thawing. However, you can freeze the boiled potatoes before smashing and roasting to save prep time later.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a hot oven at 200°C (390°F) for 10-15 minutes or on a skillet to restore crispiness rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

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

Waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well during boiling and roasting and give the best texture in this recipe.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used, but their texture and sweetness will change the final flavor and crispiness. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly.

How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?

Use plenty of olive oil, roast at high temperature, and turn the potatoes halfway through cooking. Also, don’t skip the smashing step, as it exposes more surface area to crisp up.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh herbs provide the best flavor and aroma, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch. Just add them earlier during seasoning so they have time to release flavors while roasting.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan when you stick to potatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs—no animal products needed for tasty results.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for that one side dish to wow your guests or simply elevate your weeknight meals, Crispy Roasted Batatas à Murro Potatoes are exactly what you need. This joyful combination of crunch, softness, and flavor is easy to make and endlessly satisfying. Give these golden beauties a try and enjoy a little taste of Portugal right in your own kitchen!

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